Wireless gaming system combining both physical and virtual play elements

ABSTRACT

A wireless input device for playing an interactive motion-sensitive game using a wireless-compatible game console in which a virtual play environment is represented through one or more computer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects is provided wherein game play is conducted by moving, shaking, twisting, waving or pointing the input device in a particular manner. The input device can include motion-sensitive circuitry and/or command circuitry for generating control signals and/or an effects generator and associated control circuitry to enable the input device to selectively generate at least one visual, aural or tactile effect comprising sound, lighting or vibration. The input device can include a wireless transceiver for providing two-way wireless communication with the wireless-compatible game console. An optional display screen displays short text messages received through wireless communications with the wireless-compatible game console.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/314,980, filed Dec. 8, 2011, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/231,813, filed Sep. 13, 2011, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/261,864, filed Oct.30, 2008, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/954,025, filed Sep. 29, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,445,550, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/397,054,filed Mar. 25, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,500,917, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/792,282,filed Feb. 22, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,761,637, issued Jul. 13, 2004,each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entiretyto be part of this specification.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The present invention generally relates to children's games and, inparticular, to magic wands and interactive games and play systemsutilizing wireless transponders and receivers for providing a magicalinteractive play experience. The present invention also relatesparticularly to interactive toys, games and play systems utilizing radiofrequency transponders and transceivers to provide a unique interactivegame play experience.

2. Description of the Related Art

Games, toys, play structures and other similar entertainment systems arewell known for providing play and interaction among children and adults.A variety of commercially available play toys and games are also knownfor providing valuable learning and entertainment opportunities forchildren, such as role playing, reading, memory stimulation, tactilecoordination and the like.

Magic and wizardry are classic play themes that continue to captureimaginations and entertain new generations of children and adults like.Magic and the seemingly limitless possibilities of fun and excitingthings brought to life through magic challenge children's imaginations,creativity and social interactivity.

While there are many games and toys that specifically target magic andwizardry as a central play theme, most offer only a superficiallyengaging play experience, particularly for older children. Very fewoffer a fully immersive play experience that allows participants tocarry out and immerse themselves in a realistic fantasy experience ofpracticing, performing and mastering “real” magic. In any event, thereis always demand for more exciting and entertaining games and toys thatincrease learning and entertainment opportunities for children andstimulate creativity and imagination.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present invention provide a unique play experiencecarried out utilizing an interactive “wand” and/or other seeminglymagical actuation/tracking device. The wand or other actuation deviceallows play participants to electronically and “magically” interact withtheir surrounding play environment(s), thereby giving play participantsthe realistic illusion of practicing, performing and mastering “real”magic.

Embodiments of the invention may be carried out in association withvirtually any suitable play environment, play structure, play area orother area (either commercial or residential), as desired. It can alsobe carried out in non-physical play environments, such as television,radio, virtual reality, computer games and the like. The playenvironment may be simply a themed play area, or even a multi-purposearea such as a restaurant dining facility, family room, bedroom or thelike. The play environment may either be real or imaginary (i.e.,computer/TV generated), and either local or remote, as desired.Optionally, multiple play participants, each provided with a suitable“wand” and/or other actuation/tracking device, may play and interacttogether, either within or outside one or more compatible playenvironments, to achieve desired goals, master certain magical spellsand/or produce desired seemingly magical effects within the playenvironment.

In accordance with one embodiment the present invention provides a toywand or other seemingly magical object which provides a basic foundationfor a complex, interactive entertainment system to create a seeminglymagic interactive play experience for play participants who possess andlearn to use the magical wand toy.

In accordance with another embodiment, the present invention provides aninteractive play system and seemingly magical wand toy for enabling atrained user to electronically send and receive information to and fromother wand toys and/or to and from various transceivers distributedthroughout a play facility and/or connected to a master control system.The toy wand or other seemingly magical object is configured to use asend/receive radio frequency communications protocol which provides abasic foundation for a complex, interactive entertainment system tocreate a seemingly magic interactive play experience for playparticipants who possess and learn to use the magical wand toy.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides a“magic” training facility wherein play participants can select and/orbuild and then learn to use a “real” magic wand. The wand allows playparticipants to electronically and “magically” interact with theirsurrounding play environment simply by pointing, touching or using theirwands in a particular manner to achieve desired goals or produce desiredeffects within the play environment. Various wireless receivers oractuators are distributed throughout the play facility to facilitatesuch interaction and to facilitate full immersion in the fantasy ofpracticing, performing and mastering “real” magic.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides awand actuator device for actuating various interactive play effectswithin a compatible play environment. The wand comprises an elongatedhollow pipe or tube having a proximal end or handle portion and a distalend or transmitting portion. An internal cavity may be provided toreceive one or more batteries to power optional lighting, laser or soundeffects and/or to power long-range transmissions such as via an infraredLED transmitter device or RF transmitter device. The distal end of thewand may be fitted with an RFID (radio frequency identification device)transponder that is operable to provide relatively short-range RFcommunications (<60 cm) with one or more receivers or transceiversdistributed throughout a play environment. A magnetic tip may also beprovided for actuating various effects via one or more magneticallyoperated reed switches. The handle portion of the wand may be fittedwith an ornamental knob that is selected by play participants from anavailable assortment. Knobs may be fitted with an optional rotary switchthat may be selectably rotated to indicate different spells, commands orcombinations of spells and commands for activating or controllingvarious associated special effects.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides awand having an RFID transponder or tag. The transponder contains certainelectronics comprising a radio frequency tag pre-programmed with aunique person identifier number (“UPIN”). The UPIN may be used toidentify and track individual play participants and/or wands within theplay facility. Optionally, each tag may also include a unique groupidentifier number (“UGIN”), which may be used to match a defined groupof individuals having a predetermined relationship. The RFID transponderor other identifying device is preferably used to store certaininformation identifying each play participant and/or describing certainpowers or abilities possessed by an imaginary role-play character.Players advance in a magic adventure game by finding clues, castingspells and solving various puzzles presented. Players may also gain (orlose) certain attributes, such as magic skills, magic strength, fightingability, various spell-casting abilities, combinations of the same orthe like. All of this information is preferably stored on the RFIDtransponder and/or an associated database indexed by UPIN so that thecharacter attributes may be easily and conveniently transported to othersimilarly-equipped play facilities, computer games, video games, homegame consoles, hand-held game units, and the like. In this manner, animaginary role-play character is created and stored on a transponderdevice that is able to seamlessly transcend from one play environment tothe next.

In accordance with another embodiment, the present invention provides anRFID card or badge intended to be affixed or adhered to the front of ashirt or blouse worn by a play participant while visiting an RF equippedplay facility. The badge comprises a paper, cardboard or plasticsubstrate having a front side and a back side. The front side may beimprinted with graphics, photos, or any other information desired. Thefront side may include any number of other designs or informationpertinent to its application. The obverse side of the badge containscertain electronics comprising a radio frequency tag pre-programmed witha unique person identifier number (“UPIN”). The UPIN may be used toidentify and track individual play participants within the playfacility. Optionally, each tag may also include a unique groupidentifier number (“UGIN”) which may be used to match a defined group ofindividuals having a predetermined relationship.

In accordance with another embodiment, the present invention provides anelectronic role-play game utilizing specially configured electronicallyreadable character cards. Each card is configured with an RFID or amagnetic “swipe” strip or the like, that may be used to store certaininformation describing the powers or abilities of an imaginary role-playcharacter that the card represents. As each play participant uses his orher favorite character card in various play facilities the characterrepresented by the card gains (or loses) certain attributes, such asmagic skill level, magic strength, flight ability, various spell-castingabilities, etc. All of this information is preferably stored on the cardso that the character attributes may be easily and convenientlytransported to other similarly-equipped play facilities, computer games,video games, home game consoles, hand-held game units, and the like. Inthis manner, an imaginary role-play character is created and stored on acard that is able to seamlessly transcend from one play medium to thenext.

In accordance with another embodiment the present invention provides atrading card game wherein a plurality of cards depicting various real orimaginary persons, characters and/or objects are provided and whereineach card has recorded or stored thereon in an electronically readableformat certain selected information pertaining to the particular person,character or object, such as performance statistics, traits/powers, orspecial abilities. The information is preferably stored on an RFIDtracking tag associated with each card and which can be readelectronically and wirelessly over a predetermined range preferablygreater than about 1 cm when placed in the proximity of a suitablyconfigured RF reader. Optionally, the RFID tag may be read/write capablesuch that it the information stored thereon may be changed or updated inany manner desired. Alternatively, a magnetic strip, bar code or similarinformation storage means may be used to store relevant information onthe card.

For purposes of summarizing the invention and the advantages achievedover the prior art, certain objects and advantages of the invention havebeen described herein above. Of course, it is to be understood that notnecessarily all such objects or advantages may be achieved in accordancewith any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example,those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may beembodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes oneadvantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarilyachieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggestedherein.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of theinvention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments of the presentinvention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description of the preferred embodiments havingreference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited toany particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus summarized the general nature of the invention and itsessential features and advantages, certain preferred embodiments andmodifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the detailed description herein having reference to the figuresthat follow, of which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of an interactivewand toy having features and advantages in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic illustrations of a mercury tilt switch foruse in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention and beingshown in the OFF and ON conditions, respectively;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic illustrations of a micro-ball tilt switch(normally closed configuration) for use in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention and being shown in the ON and OFFconditions, respectively;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic illustrations of a micro-ball tilt switch(normally open configuration) for use in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention and being shown in the ON and OFF conditions,respectively;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic illustrations of the interactive wand toyof FIG. 1 in upward and downward orientations, respectively;

FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of a user waving the interactivewand toy of FIG. 1 in such a way to produce actuation thereof;

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of an alternative embodiment of aninteractive wand toy including an optional RF/IR module and havingfeatures and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an optional magnetic inductanceenergy source having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an optional piezo generator energysource having features and advantages in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a piezo armature for use in apiezo generator having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic circuit diagram of the piezo generator and powersupply of FIG. 9 having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an RF/IR module and optional RFIDtransponder having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an RF/IR module and optional RFIDtransponder having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 14A is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including optional orientation sensors havingfeatures and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 14B is a detail transverse cross-sectional view of the handleportion of the interactive wand toy of FIG. 14A, illustrating thepreferred placement and orientation of the optional orientation sensorsand having features and advantages in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 15A is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including optional rotary switch havingfeatures and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15B is a detail transverse cross-sectional view of the handleportion of the interactive wand toy of FIG. 15A illustrating onepreferred embodiment of a rotary switch having features and advantagesin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15C is a partial perspective view of a user rotating the knob ofthe interactive wand toy of FIG. 15A in such a way to produce a desiredwand operation or effect;

FIG. 15D is a detail view of the handle portion and rotatable knob ofthe interactive wand toy of FIGS. 15A and 15B;

FIG. 16A is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including optional touch sensor elementshaving features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 16B is a detail view of one embodiment of a touch sensor element ofFIG. 16A having features and advantages in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 16C is a partial perspective view of a user operating thetouch-sensor-enabled interactive wand toy of FIG. 15A in such a way toproduce a desired wand operation of effect;

FIG. 16D is a detail view of the handle portion and touch sensor contactelements of the interactive wand toy of FIGS. 16A and 16C;

FIGS. 17A-17B are time-sequenced illustrations of one embodiment of awand-actuated effect using the interactive wand toy of FIG. 16 withoptional magnetic tip and a magnetic reed switch having features andadvantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17C is an alternative embodiment of a wand-actuated effect usingthe interactive wand toy of FIG. 16 with optional magnetic tip, amagnetic reed switch and an optional RF/IR receiver having features andadvantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 18A and 18B are schematic illustrations showing one preferredmethod for fabricating, assembling and finishing an interactive wand toyhaving features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 19A-19P are schematic illustrations showing various possibleconstructions, configurations and finishes of interactive wand toyshaving features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 20A and 20B are schematic illustrations showing two alternativepreferred embodiments of an RFID-enabled wand toy having features andadvantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 20C and 20D are front and back views, respectively, of a preferredembodiment of an RFID-enabled trading card having features andadvantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 20E and 20F are front and back views, respectively, of a preferredembodiment of an RFID-enabled key chain trinket having features andadvantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 21A is a partial cross-section detail view of the distal end of theinteractive wand toy of FIG. 1, illustrating the provision of an RFIDtransponder device therein;

FIG. 21B is a schematic illustration of an RFID read/write unit for usewith the interactive wand toy of FIG. 1 having features and advantagesin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 21C is a simplified circuit schematic of the RFID read/write unitof FIG. 21B having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 22A is a simplified schematic block diagram of an RF transmittermodule adapted for use in accordance with one preferred embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 22B is a simplified schematic block diagram of an IR transmittermodule adapted for use in accordance with one preferred embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 23A is a simplified schematic block diagram of an RF receivermodule and controller adapted for use in accordance with one preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23B is a simplified schematic block diagram of an RF receivermodule and controller adapted for use in accordance with one preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a simplified schematic diagram of an alternative embodimentof a portion of the RF receiver module of FIG. 23A adapted for use inaccordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a detailed electrical circuit schematic of the RF transmittermodule of FIG. 22A adapted for use in accordance with one preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a detailed electrical circuit schematic of the RF receivermodule of FIG. 23A adapted for use in accordance with one preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a simplified illustration of an interactive play systemusable with light-activation in accordance with one preferred embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 27A is a simplified illustration of another embodiment of aninteractive play system usable with light-activation;

FIG. 27B is a simplified illustration of another embodiment of aninteractive play system usable with light-activation;

FIG. 28 is a perspective illustration of one preferred embodiment of awand-actuated play effect comprising a player piano controlled at leastin part by the output of an RF receiver and/or magnetic reed switchhaving features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a perspective illustration of another preferred embodiment ofa wand-actuated play effect comprising bookshelves with simulatedlevitating books controlled at least in part by the output of an RFreceiver and/or magnetic reed switch having features and advantages inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a perspective illustration of another preferred embodiment ofa wand-actuated play effect comprising a water fountain effectcontrolled at least in part by the output of an RF receiver and/ormagnetic reed switch having features and advantages in accordance withthe present invention;

FIGS. 31A and 31B are time-sequenced perspective views of a magictraining center comprising various wand-actuated play effects controlledat least in part by the output of one or more RF receivers and/ormagnetic reed switches having features and advantages in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 32A is a perspective illustration of one preferred embodiment of awand-actuated game comprising a grid of lighted squares that arecontrolled at least in part by one or more RF receivers and/or magneticreed switches having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIGS. 32B-32D are time-sequenced top plan views of the wand-actuatedgame of FIG. 32A, illustrating the preferred operation thereof andhaving features and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 33A-33D are front views of various role-play character cards foruse within an interactive play structure;

FIGS. 34A and 34B are front and rear views, respectively, of analternative embodiment of a role-play character card for use with aspecially configured interactive game and/or game play facility havingfeatures and advantages in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 35A-35G are various illustrations of a role-play adventure gameconfigured to be utilized with the role-play character card of FIGS. 34Aand 34B and having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIGS. 36A and 36B are front and rear views, respectively, of a tradingor playing card having features and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention; and

FIGS. 36C and 36D are front views of several alternative embodiments oftrading or playing cards having features and advantages in accordancewith the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For convenience of description and for better clarity and understandingof the invention similar elements to those previously described may beidentified with similar or identical reference numerals. However, notall such elements in all embodiments are necessarily identical as theremay be differences that become clear when read and understood in thecontext of each particular disclosed preferred embodiment.

Interactive Wand

A wand is provided that allows play participants to electronically and“magically” interact with their surrounding play environment simply bypointing or using their wands in a particular manner to achieve desiredgoals or produce desired effects within the play environment. Use of thewand may be as simple as touching it to a particular surface or“magical” item within a suitably configured play environment or it maybe as complex as shaking or twisting the wand a predetermined number oftimes in a particular manner and/or pointing it accurately at a certaintarget desired to be “magically” transformed or otherwise affected.

For example, various wand-compatible receivers may be distributedthroughout a play facility that will allow wand users to activatevarious associated play effects and/or to play a game using the wand. Asplay participants play and interact within each play environment theylearn more about the “magical” powers possessed by the wand and becomemore adept at using the wand within various game contexts to achievedesired goals or desired play effects. Optionally, play participants maycollect points or earn additional magic levels or ranks for each playeffect or task they successfully achieve. In this manner, playparticipants may compete with one another to see who can score morepoints and/or achieve the highest magic level.

FIG. 1 illustrates the basic construction of one preferred embodiment ofan interactive “magic” wand toy 100 having features and advantages inaccordance with the present invention. While a magic wand isspecifically contemplated and described herein as the most preferredembodiment of the invention, those skilled in the art will readilyappreciate from the disclosure herein that the invention is not limitedto wands, but may be carried out using any number or variety of otherobjects and toys for which it may be desirable to imbue special “magic”powers or other functionalities described herein. Other suitable magicalobjects and toys may include, for example and without limitation,ordinary sticks, tree branches, flowers, swords, staffs, scepters,whips, paddles, nunchuks, cricket bats, baseball bats, various sportingballs, brooms, feather dusters, paint brushes, wooden spoons, chopsticks, pens, pencils, crayons, umbrellas, walking canes, candy canes,candle sticks, candles, tapers, musical instruments (e.g., flutes,recorders, drum sticks), books, diaries, flashlights, telescopes,kaleidoscopes, laser pointers, ropes, tassels, gloves, coats, hats,shoes and other clothing items, fishing rods and simulated fishing rods,dolls, action figures, stuffed animals, rings, bracelets necklaces andother jewelry items, key chain trinkets, lighters, rocks, crystals,crystal balls, prisms, and various simulated play objects such asapples, arranges, bananas, carrots, celery and other fruits/vegetables.However, magic wands are particularly preferred because they are highlyversatile, can transcend a wide variety of different play themes andplay environments, and wands can be customized and personalized in theirfabrication, assembly and finish as will be described herein in moredetail.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the wand 100 essentially comprises anelongated hollow pipe or tube 110 having a proximal end 112 and a distalend 114. An internal cavity 116 is preferably provided to receive andsafely house various circuitry for activating and operating the wand andvarious wand-controlled effects (described later). Batteries, optionallighting, laser or sound effects and/or the like may also be providedand housed within cavity 116, if desired, as will be described in moredetail later. An optional button may also be provided, if desired, toenable particular desired functions, such as sound or lighting effectsor longer-range transmissions. While a hollow metal or plastic tube 110is preferred, it will be appreciated that virtually any other mechanicalstructure or housing may be used to support and contain the variouscomponents and parts described herein, including integrally molded orencapsulated containment structures such as epoxy resins and the like.If a metal tube is selected, care must be taken to ensure that it doesnot unduly interfere with any of the magnetic, RFID or RF/IR devicesdescribed herein. Thus, for example, any RF antennas should preferablybe mounted near or adjacent an end opening and/or other opening of thetube 110 to ensure adequate operating range and desired directionality.

The proximal end 112 of tube 110 is preferably adapted to secure thetube 110 to an optional handle 120. The handle 120 may further includesecurement means, such as threaded stud 121, snap latches, matingmagnets or the like, for receiving and securing an optional decorativeknob 123. For example, knobs 123 may be purchased, selected and/orearned by play participants as they advance in a game and/or when theyplay different games. The distal end 114 of the wand is preferablyfitted with an RFID (radio frequency identification) transponder or tag118 that is operable to provide relatively short-range RF communications(less than about 200 cm) using one or more RFID reader units orreader/writer units (sometimes referred to herein as “receivers” or“transceivers,” respectively), described in more detail later. Thetransponder 118 contains certain electronics comprising a radiofrequency tag pre-programmed with a unique person identifier number(“UPIN”). The UPIN may be used to identify and track individual wandsand/or play participants. Optionally, each tag may also include a uniquegroup identifier number (“UGIN”) which may be used to match a definedgroup of individuals having a predetermined or desired relationship.

The RFID transponder is preferably used to store certain informationidentifying each play participant and/or describing certain powers orabilities possessed by an imaginary role-play character. For example,players may advance in a magic adventure game by finding clues, castingspells and solving various puzzles presented. Players may also gain (orlose) certain attributes, such as magic skills, magic strength, fightingability, various spell-casting abilities, combinations of the same orthe like, based on game play, skill-level and/or the purchase ofcollateral play objects. Some or all of this information is preferablystored on the RFID transponder 118 so that the character attributes maybe easily and conveniently transported to various compatible playfacilities, games, video games, home game consoles, hand-held gameunits, and the like. Alternatively, only the UPIN and/or UGIN are storedon the transponder 118 and all other desired information is stored on acomputer-accessible database indexed by UPIN and/or UGIN.

Operation of the transponder 118 (and/or other wireless communicationdevices described later) is preferably controlled by internal activationcircuitry 115 comprising, in the particular embodiment illustrated, apair of series-connected mercury tilt sensors 122 and 124 (representedin the corresponding schematic diagram as switches S1 and S2,respectively). As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B each mercury tiltsensor 122, 124 comprises a sealed, evacuated glass bulb 130 withinwhich is contained a small ball of liquid mercury. A pair of electricalleads 134 extends through the glass bulb 130 at the sealed end thereofand form closely spaced contacts 136. In one orientation (e.g., FIG. 2B)the ball of mercury 132 is drawn by gravity to cover or envelope thecontacts 136, thus completing the electrical circuit and closing theswitch S1/S2 (ON state). In all other orientations (e.g., FIG. 2A) theball of mercury 132 does not contact or envelope both contacts 136 and,thus, the circuit remains open (OFF state). The particular orientationand tilt angle required to trigger either ON or OFF conditions willdepend on the size of the glass bulb 130, amount of contained mercury132 and the size and spacing of contacts 136. If mercury sensors areused, preferably they are encased in a metal and/or epoxy jacket so asto ensure against breakage and possible health and environmentalhazards. Preferably, each mercury sensor is encased in epoxy within asealed stainless steel ferule.

Alternatively, one or more micro-ball tilt sensors 136 or 138 may beused instead of or in addition to mercury switches 122, 124. Forexample, FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic illustrations of a micro-balltilt switch 136 (normally closed configuration) that may be adapted foruse in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention. Thetilt switches 136, 138 generally comprise upper and lower conductiveenclosures 142, 146, respectively, separated by a suitable insulatingmaterial 144 and a conductive ball 140 that is free to move within. Inone orientation (e.g., FIG. 3A) the internally contained conductive ball140 rests within an annular groove completing the electrical circuitbetween the top conductive enclosure 142 and bottom conductive enclosure146 (ON state). But, when the sensor 136 is tilted by an amount greaterthan angle α (FIG. 3B), the ball 140 rolls away from the lowerconductive enclosure 141 and, thus, the circuit is opened (OFF state).

FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic illustrations of another embodiment of amicro-ball tilt switch 138 (normally open configuration) that may alsobe adapted for use in accordance with a further alternative embodimentof the present invention. In this case, in a first orientation (e.g.,FIG. 4A) an internally contained conductive ball 140 rests within acentral conical pocket formed in the lower conductive enclosure 146 andis thereby prevented from contacting and completing electricalconnection to the upper conductive enclosure 142 (OFF state). But, whenthe sensor 138 is tilted by an amount greater than angle α (FIG. 4B) theball 140 rolls out of the conical pocket, touching and completing thecircuit with the upper conductive enclosure 142 (ON state). Theparticular orientation and range of tilt angles required to triggereither ON or OFF conditions of micro-ball sensors 136, 138 can be variedand/or adjusted to meet varying needs and skill levels of wand users.

Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B tilt sensors 122 and 124 are preferablyoppositely oriented and spaced apart between opposite ends of the tube110, as illustrated. Those skilled in the art will appreciate from thedisclosure herein that in virtually any static position of the wand 100at least one of tilt sensors 122, 124 will be in the OFF state. Thus,the transponder 118 can essentially only be activated when the wand isin a non-static condition or, in other words, when the wand is inmotion. More specifically, the placement and orientation of the tiltsensors 122, 124 is preferably such that different accelerations ormotions are required at the proximal and distal ends 112 and 114 inorder to trigger both tilt sensors 122, 124 to their ON positions (orOFF positions, as the case may be) and, thus, to enable or activatetransponder 118 (or other wireless communication devices describedlater).

As illustrated in FIG. 5A, when the wand 100 is held in an uprightorientation, tilt sensor 122 (S1) is in its ON state (Static-ON) andtilt sensor 124 (S2) is in its OFF state (Static-OFF). Because thesensors are wired in series, the activation circuit 115 is OFF (opencircuit) and the transponder 118 is disabled. Of course, those skilledin the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure herein that iftransponder 118 requires a short circuit to disable, then the sensors122 and 124 would preferably be wired in parallel and, in theorientation shown, the activation circuit 115 would be shorted throughS1. On the other hand, when the wand 100 is held in an upside downorientation (FIG. 5B), tilt sensor 122 (S1) is in its OFF state(Static-OFF) and tilt sensor 124 (S2) is in its ON state (Static-ON)such that the activation circuit 115 remains OFF (open circuit) and thetransponder 118 remains disabled. Again, if transponder 118 requires ashort circuit to disable, then the sensors 122 and 124 would preferablybe wired in parallel and, in the orientation shown, the activationcircuit 115 would be shorted through S2.

Advantageously, the wand activation circuit 115 in accordance with theabove-described preferred embodiment is essentially only activated (andtransponder 118 is only enabled) when a user actively moves the wand 100in such particular way as to impart different transient accelerationforces on the distal and proximal ends of the wand 100 (or wherever thesensors are located if not at the distal and proximal ends). Inparticular, the transient acceleration forces must be sufficient enoughat one end of the wand to overcome the gravitational forces acting onthe upper sensor (Static-OFF), but not sufficient enough at the otherend to overcome the gravitational forces acting on the lower sensor(Static-ON). This transient condition is illustrated in FIG. 6.

The wand activation circuit 115 (and, thus, transponder 118) isactivated by holding the wand tilted slightly upward in one hand whilegently and smoothly waving it so that the distal end 114 of the wandfollows an upward-cresting arcing pattern while the proximal end 112remains relatively steady or follows a smaller, more gentle arcingpattern. The acceleration forces caused by the upward arcing motion atthe distal end 114 counteract gravitational forces on the tilt sensor124 and cause it to switch from its OFF state to its ON state. At thesame time, the smaller arcing motion and acceleration forces at theproximal end 112 are not sufficient to counteract the gravitation forceson the tilt sensor 122 and, thus, it remains in its ON state. The resultis that both sensors 122 and 124 are momentarily in their ON state andthe wand activation circuit 115 thereby momentarily activates thetransponder 118. The complexity and learnability of the described motionis similar to a golf swing. Only with this particular motion (or othersimilar learned motions) executed in a precise and repeatable fashionwill the transient conditions be satisfied to cause both sensors 122 and124 to switch to their ON state, thereby momentarily activatingtransponder 118. If the arcing motion is too fast or too pronounced, thelower sensor 122 will switch to its OFF state. On the other hand, if thearcing motion is too slow or too shallow, the upper sensor 124 will notswitch to its ON state. Thus, successful operation of the wand 100requires real skill, patience and training.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate and understand from thedisclosure herein that various additional and/or alternative wandactivation circuits can be designed and configured so as to respond todifferent desired wand activation motions. For example, this may beachieved by adding more sensors and/or by changing sensor positions andorientations. For example, one wand motion may trigger a first wandactivation circuit (and a first wand effect) while a different wandmotion may trigger a second wand activation circuit (and a second wandeffect). The number, type and complexity of wand motions andcorresponding wand activation circuits are limited only by design andcost considerations and user preferences. Most desirably 6-12 uniquewand activation motions and corresponding wand activation circuits areprovided. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize from thedisclosure herein that multiple wand activation circuits may share oneor more sensors and/or other supporting circuitry and components, asrequired or desired. Alternatively, a single, multi-mode wand activationcircuit may be provided that can respond to multiple wand motions.

The degree of difficulty and skill required to master each wand motioncan preferably be adjusted to suit the age and skill-level of each user.Generally speaking, selecting tilt sensors 122, 124 having narrowactivation ranges increases the difficulty level of the wand, as itmakes it more difficult to satisfy the transient conditions required toturn each sensor to its ON or active state. Similarly, adding moresensors also increases the difficulty level, as it decreases theprobability that all required transient conditions can be satisfied in agiven moment. Placement and orientation of the sensors 122 and 124 (andany other sensors) can also make a difference in the degree ofdifficulty and skill required. For example, spacing the sensors closertogether (e.g., 3-5 cm apart) generally makes it more difficult tooperate the wand as it becomes harder and harder to create differenttransient conditions relative to each sensor location. Conversely,spacing sensors farther apart (e.g., 10-35 cm apart) makes it easier. Anoptimal sensor spacing is about 8-12 cm. Optionally, some or all ofthese degree-of-difficulty parameters can be adjusted or changed asskill-levels increase or as other circumstances warrant.

Of course, those skilled in the art will appreciate from the disclosureherein that the wand activation circuitry 115 is not limited to thoseincluding mercury or micro-ball tilt sensors, as illustrated, but may bepracticed using a wide variety of other motion and/or tilt sensorsand/or other supporting circuitry elements and components that areselected and adapted to the purposes described herein. These include,without limitation, impact sensors, micro-sensors, gyro-sensors, forcesensors, micro-switches, momentum sensors, vibration sensors, gravitysensors, accelerometers, and all variety of reed switches (gravity,momentum, magnetic or otherwise). Moreover, any one or more of theseand/or other similar sensor devices may also be used in conjunction withother supporting circuitry elements or components (either internal orexternal to the wand 100) as desired, including microprocessors,computers, controller boards, PID circuitry, input/output devices,combinations of the same and the like. Mercury and micro-ball tiltsensors as illustrated and described above are particularly preferred asthey are relatively inexpensive and reliable.

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of an alternative embodiment of aninteractive wand 100 a including an optional RF/IR module adapted forlong-range wireless communications (up to about 100 meters). Wand 100 ais essentially the same as wand 100 illustrated and described above inconnection with FIG. 1, except longer-range wand operation is achievedby replacing the RFID transponder 118 in wand 100 (FIG. 1) with anauxiliary RF/IR transmitter 150 (see FIGS. 22 and 25 accompanyingdiscussion for circuit schematic and other details). If line of sight ordirectional actuation is desired, an infrared LED transmitter of thetype employed in standard television remote controls may be providedinstead of or in addition to the RF transmitter 118, as those skilled inthe art will readily appreciate. In the latter case, a hole (not shown)would preferably be provided in the distal end 114 of the wand toaccommodate the transmitting LED of the IR transmitter circuit. Ofcourse, a wide variety of other wireless communications devices, as wellas various optional sound and lighting effects may also be provided, asdesired.

RF/IR transmitter module 150 and/or any other desired optional effectsmay be actuated using the wand activating circuit 115 substantially asillustrated and described above in connection with FIGS. 1-6. Asillustrated in FIG. 7, tilt sensors 122, 124 (S1/S2) are wired in serieswith the RF/IR module, between batteries 152 (voltage source V+) andground (all or part of tube 110). Thus, RF/IR module 150 is powered whensensors 122 and 124 are both in their ON state (switches S1 and S2 areboth closed). Again, this transient state can essentially only beachieved when a skilled user actively moves the wand 100 a in suchparticular way as to impart different transient acceleration forces onthe distal and proximal ends of the wand 100 a, as illustrated anddescribed above in connection with FIG. 6. Other than as noted above itwill be understood that the wand 100 a is in all other material respectsessentially the same as wand 100 illustrated and described in connectionwith FIGS. 1-5. Note that the handle 120 a and knob 123 a are slightlymodified, as these elements are preferably uniquelycustomized/personalized for each wand and/or wand user as will bediscussed in more detail later.

Furthermore, the wand activation circuitry 115 may advantageouslycomprise a microprocessor that communicates with the sensors 122, 124and the transmitter module 150. In one embodiment, the microprocessorreceives at least one signal from the sensors 122, 124 indicative of thestate of the sensors. For instance, the microprocessor may determinewhen each of the sensors 122, 124 are in an ON or an OFF state or whenone of the sensors 122, 124 switches states. Based on the states of thesensors 122, 124, the microprocessor then outputs a signal to thetransmitter module 150 that causes activation or deactivation of thetransmitter module 150.

In another embodiment, the microprocessor is capable of measuring aduration of time related to the operational states of the sensors 122,124. For example, the microprocessor may use a clock signal or anexternal timer to determine the duration of time during which at leastone of the sensors 122, 124 is in an ON state. The microprocessor maythen use this duration of time when outputting a signal to thetransmitter module 150. For example, the microprocessor may correlatethe duration of time that a sensor 122, 124 is activated (e.g., in an ONstate) with an intensity, level, or type of a “spell” being cast by theuser. For instance, if the user, while “casting a spell,” is able tomove the wand 100 so as to keep at least one of the sensors 122, 124activated for a certain period of time, the microprocessor may assign aparticular level or intensity to the spell being cast. Thus, themicroprocessor may output different signals, which represent differentspells or spell intensities, to the transmitter module 150 based on thelength of time of the sensor activation. In one embodiment, themicroprocessor may associate longer durations of sensor activation withhigher intensity spells.

In yet other embodiments, the microprocessor calculates the duration oftime between successive activations, or triggering, of the sensors 122,124. For example, the microprocessor may determine how much time passesbetween the activation of the sensor 122 and the activation of thesensor 124, which are caused by the user's operation of the wand 100.For instance, the microprocessor may associate simultaneous or shorterdurations of time between the activations of the two sensors 122, 124with a more advanced, or higher-level, spell. Thus, the user thatoperates the wand 100 so as to activate each of the sensors 122, 124within a relatively short period of time is able to cast higher-levelspells. On the other hand, if there is a greater delay between theactivations of the sensors 122, 124, the microprocessor assigns a lowerintensity level to the spell being cast. In yet other embodiments, thetime during or between the sensor activations is used by themicroprocessor to determine which of a variety of spells is achieved bythe user.

In other embodiments, the microprocessor may compare the duration oftime of sensor activation or time between successive activations, to apredetermined time. For example, if the duration of time betweensuccessive activations is less than the predetermined time, the “spell”may be assigned a higher intensity level. If the duration of timebetween successive activations is greater than the predetermined time,the “spell” may be assigned a higher lower level. In addition, in someembodiments, the microprocessor does not calculate the specific value ofthe duration of time but determines if the duration of time exceeds ordoes not exceed a predetermined time.

In yet other embodiments of the invention, the duration of time duringor between activation of the sensors 122, 124 is output to a receiverexternal to the wand 100. The receiver then processes the duration oftime in determining which effect, or which level of an effect, is causedby the particular wand activation motions and associated duration(s) oftime. In yet other embodiments, the foregoing microprocessor may be usedin a wand 100 comprising a transponder 118 instead of, or in combinationwith, the transmitter module 150.

In another embodiment, the microprocessor accesses a look-up table thatassociates specific durations of time, or ranges of durations of time,with the intensity or the type of the spell being cast. For example, thelook-up table may associate durations of time less than 0.1 secondsbetween successive sensor activations with a higher level spell,durations of time from 0.1 to 0.2 seconds with a mid-level spell, anddurations of time greater than 0.2 seconds with a lower level spell. Inone embodiment, the look-up table is stored in a memory, such as forexample a read-only memory (ROM), on the wand 100. The look-up table maybe internal or external to the microprocessor. In yet other embodiments,the look-up table may be accessible by the receiver of the signal fromthe wand 100.

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an optional magnetic inductanceenergy source. Wand 100 b is essentially the same as wand 100illustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 1, except thatbatteries 152 are replaced with a magnetic inductance energy generator162. The magnetic inductance energy generator 162 comprises aninductance coil L1 sized and arranged such that when it is exposed to afluctuating magnetic field (e.g., a moving permanent magnet 164 rubbedback and forth and/or an externally generated electromagnetic field) analternating current is generated. This generated current is rectified bydiode D1 or, alternatively, a full wave bridge rectifier (not shown),and charges preferably an electrolytic capacitor C1 until it reaches apredetermined operating voltage V+. If desired, a voltage regulatordevice, such as a zener diode (not shown) and/or active regulationcircuitry may be added to stabilize and increase the efficiency of themagnetic inductance energy generator 162.

Alternatively, those skilled in the art will appreciate from thedisclosure herein that a various magnetic field effect sensors, such asWiegand sensors and the like, may readily be used in place of or inaddition to inductor L1 where, for example, it is desired to increasethe energy-generating efficiency of the circuit 162. For example, U.S.Pat. No. 6,191,687 to Dlugos discloses a Wiegand effect energy generatorcomprising a Wiegand wire that changes its magnetic state in response tobeing exposed to an alternating magnetic field. The Wiegand wire hascore and shell portions with divergent magnetic properties. The magneticproperties of the wire are such that it produces an output power signalthat corresponds to the strength and rate of change of a magnetic fieldto which the Wiegand wire is exposed. Such energy pulses generally arebetween about 5 and 6 volts and 10 microseconds in width. Such energypulses have sufficient voltage and duration to power a low powertransmitter such as RF/IR module 150. One suitable Wiegand sensor thatmay be utilized in accordance with the present invention is the series2000 sensor sold by EHD Corp. The Series 2000 Wiegand sensor producespulses in response to alternating magnetic fields or permanent magnetsthat pass near the sensor.

The energy generating circuit 162 is preferably such that the wand 100 bhas no movable parts and requires no maintenance such as replacingbatteries or the like over its anticipated life. All energy is generatedand stored by rubbing the wand back and forth with a permanent magnetand/or by placing the wand within an externally generatedelectromagnetic field. Preferably, the inductor L1 (or Wiegand wire) andcapacitor C1 are selected such that 5-10 seconds of exposure to anexternal fluctuating magnetic field will fully charge the capacitor C1,thus enabling the wand RF/IR transmitter to be activated at least onceand preferably 5-20 times without having to recharge. Advantageously,the absence of replaceable batteries or other visible electronictechnology significantly increases the reality and full immersionexperience of the magical fantasy and gives users the feeling ofpracticing, performing and mastering “real” magic using a “real” magicwand 100 b. Optionally, a non-replaceable permanent rechargeable batteryand/or a factory replaceable battery (not shown) may be provided inplace of or in addition to the energy generating circuit 162 where it isdesired to provide long-term energy storage. Other than replacingbatteries 152 with magnetic inductance energy generator 162, the wand100 b is in all other material respects essentially the same as wand 100a illustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 7. Note thatthe handle 120 b and knob 123 b are slightly modified, as these elementsare preferably uniquely customized/personalized for each wand and/orwand user as will be discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an optional piezoelectricgenerator. Wand 100 c is essentially the same as wand 100 b illustratedand described above in connection with FIG. 8, except that magneticinductance energy generator 162 has been replaced with a piezo generator166 and power supply 168.

Piezoelectricity refers to a unique property of certain materials suchas quartz, Rochelle salt, and certain solid-solution ceramic materialssuch as lead zirconate-titanate (Pb(Zrl-xTix)03) (“PZT”) that causesinduced stresses to produce an electric voltage or, conversely, thatcauses applied voltages to produce an induced stress. In a “generator”mode, electricity is developed when a piezoelectric (“piezo”) crystal ismechanically stressed. Conversely, in a “motor” mode, the piezo crystalreacts mechanically when an electric field is applied.

PZT is one of the leading piezoelectric materials used today. It can befabricated in bimorph or unimorph structures (piezo elements), andoperated in flexure mode. These structures have the ability to generatehigh electrical output from a source of low mechanical impedance(conversely, to develop large displacement at low levels of electricalexcitation). Typical applications include force transducers, spark pumpsfor cigarette lighters and boiler ignition, microphone heads,stereophonic pick-ups, etc.

It is known that piezo elements can be used to generate small a mountsof useful energy from motion. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,456,134 toKo, incorporated in its entirety by reference herein, discloses apiezoelectric energy converter for electronic implants, wherein bodymotion is converted into electrical energy using a piece ofpiezoelectric PZT in the form of a resonant cantilever beam. See also,U.S. Pat. No. 6,438,193 to Ko et. al, which discloses a similar piezogenerator for self-powered tire revolution counter. Such piezogenerators have particular application and benefit to batteryless toysand wands of the type disclosed and described herein.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of such a piezo generator 166comprising a “bimorph” piezo element 170 rigidly mounted at one endforming a cantilever beam. A “bimorph” is a flexing-type piezoelectricelement, which has the capacity for handling larger motions and smallerforces than single piezoelectric plates. The bimorph piezo element 170comprises two planar piezo crystals secured together face-to-face with ashim or vane therebetween. Mechanical bending of the element 170 causesit to produce a corresponding voltage between output electrodes 176,178.

The piezoelectric element 170 is mounted and enclosed within the distalend of tube 110 (FIG. 9) and its free end is loaded with a small weight174 selected to resonate at a suitable frequency corresponding to thelikely or anticipated movement of the wand 100 c. A typical measuredoscillation frequency is on the order of 10-100 Hz. As the wand is movedperiodically, the piezo element 170 vibrates back and forth producingelectrical pulses. These electrical pulses are then rectified by a fullwave bridge rectifier 180 (FIG. 11), are filtered by a filter circuitcomprising capacitors C1, C2 and resisters R0, R1 and are stored in anenergy storage capacitor C3, preferably a low-voltage electrolyticcapacitor.

In order to draw maximum power from the piezo element 170, the powersupply circuit 168 “load” impedance preferably is selected to match theoutput impedance of the piezo element 170. In order to minimize theripple effect (peak-to-peak magnitude of rippling imposed on the nominalDC voltage level) energy storage capacitor C3 is preferably selected tobe as large as possible, given available space constraints. To improvethe stability of the power-supply an optional voltage regulator 182 maybe added. For example, an LM185 IC. band-gap voltage regulator may bechosen.

The piezo generator and power supply circuits 166, 168 preferably havesufficient power output under normal operating conditions such that thewand 100 c requires no other internal energy sources such as replaceablebatteries or the like. All energy is generated and stored by normalmotion of the wand during use, e.g. during spell casting or duringnormal walking or running while carrying the wand 100 c. Preferably, theenergy storage capacitor C3 is selected such that when fully charged, itprovides sufficient stored energy to enable the wand to be activated atleast once and preferably 50-100 times without having to recharge.Advantageously, the absence of replaceable batteries or other visibleelectronic technology significantly increases the reality and fullimmersion experience of the fantasy and gives users the feeling ofpracticing, performing and mastering “real” magic using a “real” magicwand 100 c. Optionally, a non-replaceable permanent rechargeable batteryand/or a factory replaceable battery (not shown) may be provided inplace of or in addition to the energy generating circuit 166 where it isdesired to provide long-term energy storage. The wand 100 c in all othermaterial respects is essentially the same as wand 100 b illustrated anddescribed above in connection with FIG. 8. Note that the handle 120 cand knob 123 c are slightly modified, as these elements are preferablyuniquely customized/personalized for each wand and/or wand user as willbe discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an RF/IR module and optional RFIDtransponder. Wand 100 d is essentially the same as wand 100 billustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 8, except forthe addition of optional RFID transponder 118 d.

As with the RFID transponder 118 illustrated and described above inconnection with FIG. 1, RFID transponder 118 d is operable to providerelatively short-range RF communications (less than about 200 cm) usingone or more RFID reader units or reader/writer units, described in moredetail later. The transponder 118 d also preferably contains certainelectronics comprising a radio frequency tag pre-programmed with aunique person identifier number (“UPIN”). The UPIN may be used toidentify and track individual wands and/or play participants.Optionally, each tag 118 d may also include a unique group identifiernumber (“UGIN”) which may be used to match a defined group ofindividuals having a predetermined or desired relationship.

The RFID transponder is preferably used to store certain informationidentifying each play participant and/or describing certain powers orabilities possessed by an imaginary role-play character. For example,players may advance in a magic adventure game by finding clues, castingspells and solving various puzzles presented. Players may also gain (orlose) certain attributes, such as magic skills, magic strength, fightingability, various spell-casting abilities, combinations of the same orthe like, based on game play, skill-level and/or the purchase ofcollateral play objects. Some or all of this information is preferablystored on the RFID transponder 118 d so that the character attributesmay be easily and conveniently transported to various compatible playfacilities, games, video games, home game consoles, hand-held gameunits, and the like. Alternatively, only the UPIN and UGIN are stored onthe transponder 118 and all other desired information is stored on acomputer-accessible database indexed by UPIN and/or UGIN.

If desired, RFID transponder 118 d may be electronically interlocked andcontrolled by a corresponding wand activation circuit such asillustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 1. Morepreferably, however, the RFID tag 118 d is not interlocked, but isalways activated. In this manner, transponder 118 d can be easily readat short range using an RFID reader/writer (described later) to senseand track play participants and/or to activate various simple wandeffects. Longer range RF communications via RF/IR module 150 arepreferably only enabled when an appropriate wand activation motion isexecuted as described above in connection with FIGS. 1-6. The wand 100 din all other material respects is essentially the same as wand 100 billustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 8. Note that thehandle 120 d and knob 123 d are slightly modified, as these elements arepreferably uniquely customized/personalized for each wand and/or wanduser as will be discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including an RF/IR module and optional RFIDtransponder. Wand 100 e is essentially the same as wand 100 dillustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 12, except forthe location and placement of the RFID transponder 118 e.

As with the RFID transponder 118 d illustrated and described above inconnection with FIG. 12, RFID transponder 118 e provides relativelyshort-range RF communications using one or more RFID reader units orreader/writer units, described in more detail later. The transponder 118e also preferably contains certain electronics comprising a radiofrequency tag pre-programmed with a unique person identifier number(“UPIN”) and unique group identifier number (“UGIN”). Preferably, RFIDtag 118 e is always activated so that it can be easily read at shortrange using an RFID reader/writer (described later) to sense and trackplay participants and/or to activate various simple wand effects.Placing the RFID tag 118 e in the handle 120 e, allows for modularconstruction and functionality of a wand 100 e as auxiliary handles maybe interchanged having other unique RFID tags with unique storedinformation. Optionally, the tag-containing handle 120 e and knob 123 emay be omitted altogether in the case, for example, where a lessexpensive wand is desired.

As described above, longer range RF communications via RF/IR module 150are preferably enabled only when an appropriate wand activation motionis executed as described above in connection with FIGS. 1-6. The wand100 e in all other material respects is essentially the same as wand 100d illustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 12. Note thatthe handle 120 e and knob 123 d are slightly modified, as these elementsare preferably uniquely customized/personalized for each wand and/orwand user as will be discussed in more detail later.

In certain advanced applications, it is desirable to wirelesslycommunicate specific data and commands to achieve different or variedwand effects. For example, it may desirable to wirelessly send onecommand signal that turns a certain object (e.g., a lamp) “OFF” andanother command signal that turns an object “ON”. As described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-6, this functionality may be achieved usingmultiple wand activation circuits (or a single multi-mode circuit)responsive to various unique wand motions whereby each wand motion, ifexecuted successfully, causes a different RF or IR signal to betransmitted to control or activate the desired effect (e.g., turning alight ON or OFF or simulating the levitation of an object).

Another convenient way to achieve similar functionality is to load databits representing specific desired commands directly into a data bufferof RF/IR module 150 f (FIG. 14A) and then, using only a single wandactivation circuit and a single learned wand motion, cause an RF or IRsignal to be transmitted, thereby carrying the command signal and datato an RF or IR receiver and associated effect. Thus, for example, one ormore tilt sensors 192, 194 (illustrated schematically as switches S3/S4)may be provided in a convenient location within the wand 100 f (e.g.,within the handle 120). These sensors are preferably mounted andoriented such that axial rotation of the wand shaft 110 and/or wandhandle 120 f causes the sensors to alternately switch from their ON totheir OFF state. As illustrated in the circuit schematic accompanyingFIG. 14A, Each sensor controls one data input bit of the RF/IR moduledata bus (e.g., S3, S4).

Preferably, sensors 192, 194 are disposed at an angle of between about60 and 120 degrees (most preferably about 90 degrees) from one anotherwithin a transverse plane of the wand (see, e.g., FIG. 14B). Thoseskilled in the art will readily appreciate that in this manner, fourpossible wand orientations are possible resulting in four unique sensorpair states as follows: ON/ON; OFF/OFF; ON/OFF and OFF/ON. These foursensor states can represent, for example, four unique command signalssent using the RF/IR module 150 f. The wand 100 f in all other materialrespects is essentially the same as wand 100 b illustrated and describedabove in connection with FIG. 8. Note that the handle 120 f and knob 123f are slightly modified, as these elements are preferably uniquelycustomized/personalized for each wand and/or wand user as will bediscussed in more detail later.

Where it is desired to send a larger number of unique command signals,various combinations of additional orientation sensors and/or wandactivation circuits may be added, as desired. Alternatively, variousdials, switches and/or other inputs may be provided for selecting from anumber of unique wand commands or “spells.” For example, in onepreferred embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 15A-C a wand 100 g is providedincluding a knob-actuated rotary switch 202 which directly loads up to 4data bits (up to 16 possible unique codes) representing specific desiredcommands directly into a data buffer of RF/IR module 150 g (FIG. 15A).

As illustrated in FIG. 15C a user rotates the knob 123 g and sets it tothe desired spell represented by magic symbols 204 (FIG. 15D). Then,using only a single wand activation circuit and a single learned wandmotion, the user causes an RF or IR signal to be transmitted, carryingthe unique command signal/data to an RF or IR receiver, therebycontrolling or activating an associated effect. Alternatively, apotentiometer may be used in conjunction with an ND converter circuitinstead of rotary switch 202 for selecting wand functions/spells. Thewand 100 g in all other material respects is essentially the same aswand 100 b illustrated and described above in connection with FIG. 8.Note that the handle 120 g and knob 123 g are slightly modified, asthese elements are preferably uniquely customized/personalized for eachwand and/or wand user as will be discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 16A is a schematic illustration of a further alternative embodimentof an interactive wand toy including optional touch sensor elements forselecting one or more wand spell commands. Wand 100 h is essentially thesame as wand 100 f illustrated and described above in connection withFIGS. 14A and 14B, except for the substitution of touch sensor elements208, 210, 212 for tilt sensors 192, 194.

Touch sensor elements 208, 210, 212 (represented in the accompanyingschematic as S3, S4, S5) comprise solid-state electronic switches (nobuttons or moving parts) that are activated by the simple touch of afinger. Most preferably, these are solid state touch switches of thetype illustrated and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,063,111 to Dobler etal., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.As illustrated in FIG. 16B, each touch switch contact element 208, 210,212 is preferably formed from a pair of conductive electrodes 211surrounded by, and preferably flush with, an insulating material 213. Ifdesired, the electrodes 211 may be shaped in the form of magic symbolsor other shapes consistent with a desired magic theme, as illustrated.During use, the user's finger 217 is placed over the pair of electrodes211 and thereby forms a portion of an electronic circuit to change thestate of a corresponding solid state electronic switching device Q1, Q2,Q3 in communication therewith, such as a MOSFET or PNP transistor. Thetouch sensor is thereby actuated.

Each touch sensor preferably controls one data input bit of the RF/IRmodule data bus (e.g., S3, S4, S5). One or more touch switches may beactivated during a single wand transmission. Thus, those skilled in theart will readily appreciate that eight possible combinations of touchswitch activations are possible corresponding to eight unique commandinput data sets as follows: ON/ON/ON; OFF/OFF/ON; ON/OFF/ON, OFF/ON/ON,ON/ON/OFF; OFF/OFF/OFF; ON/OFF/OFF, and OFF/ON/OFF These eight sensorstates can represent, for example, eight unique command signals sentusing the RF/IR module 150 h.

As illustrated in FIGS. 16C and 16D, a user may select a spell bytouching one or more selected magic symbols. Then, while holding thefingers over the selected magic symbols and using only a single wandactivation circuit and a single learned wand motion, the user causes anRF or IR signal to be transmitted, carrying the unique commandsignal/data to an RF or IR receiver, thereby controlling or activatingan associated effect.

Optionally, wand 100 h includes a magnetic tip 216, as illustrated inFIG. 16A. This can be especially useful and entertaining for close-rangeactivation of various play effects, such as turning lights on/off,triggering special sound and/or lighting effects. For example, FIGS.17A-17B are time-sequenced illustrations of one embodiment of amagnetically actuated lighting effect using the interactive wand toy 100h with optional magnetic tip 216. A magnetic reed switch 218 is providedin series between the desired lighting effect 220 and a power source(V+). The reed switch is constructed in the normal fashion. Contacts222, 224 are normally open and, thus, the lighting effect 220 is in itsOFF state. But, when the magnetic tip 216 of wand 100 h is brought intorelatively close proximity (2-3 cm) with the reed switch 218, contactelements 222, 224 are magnetized by the magnetic field lines and aredrawn toward each other. This causes the contacts 222, 224 toimmediately attract, closing the gap and completing the circuit to turnon the lighting effect 220. Of course, those skilled in the art willappreciate from the disclosure herein that various relays, powercontrollers and the like may be required or desirable to provideadequate control of larger, more complex effects. But all such effects,no matter how small/simple or large/complex, may be triggered with asimple reed switch 218 and a wand 100 h having a magnetic tip 216, asdescribed above.

The magnetic tip 216 is especially useful and synergistic in combinationwith the other disclosed functions and features of wand 100 h. Thus, forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 17C, a desired lighting effect iscontrolled by RF/IR receiver 250, which is adapted to receive an RFand/or IR command signal from wand 100 h. The RF/IR receiver 250 (and/orthe lighting effect 220) is also controlled by series-connected magneticreed switch 218, as illustrated and described above (FIGS. 17A, 17B).Desirably, this allows a user to use the wand 100 h and the magnetic tip216 thereof to select one or more effects he or she wishes to control oractivate. For example, the closure of the magnetic reed switch 218 sendsan activation signal to RF/IR receiver 250. In response, the receiverinitiates a timer (e.g., 5-10 seconds) wherein its RF and/or IR receivercircuitry is activated and ready to receive one or more transmittedcommands for controlling the associated effect 220. Thus, a user mayselect to control the lighting effect 220 by activating the reed switch218 with the magnetic tip 216 of wand 100 h. Then the user may cast aspell (cause the wand 100 h to transmit an RF or IR command signal) thatcommands the RF/IR receiver 250 to turn the lighting effect ON or OFF,to change the lighting effect (e.g., change its color or intensity),and/or launch a related effect (e.g., simulated levitation of thelighting source or other desired effects). In this manner, users canmaintain direct and precise control over any number of individual playeffects as may be desired. The wand 100 h in all other material respectsis essentially the same as wand 100 f illustrated and described above inconnection with FIG. 14. Note that handle 120 h and knob 123 h areslightly modified, as these elements are preferably uniquelycustomized/personalized for each wand and/or wand user as will bediscussed in more detail later.

While it is particularly preferred to provide batteryless RF-enabled,RFID-enabled or IR-enabled wand 100, those skilled in the art willrecognize from the disclosure herein that the invention may be carriedout in a variety of other ways that incorporate some or all of theinventive features disclosed and described herein. For example, wandactivation circuit 115 may be implemented in a variety of other gamingand entertainment applications such as, for example, a wireless orhard-wired wand input device for a video game, computer game or homegame console, an arcade or redemption challenge device, home-operatedamusement device using simple bells and buzzers, or the like.Alternatively, some or all of the various circuitry and componentsdescribed herein above may be externally implemented such that the wand100 may not be entirely self-contained, but may rely on certain externalcomponents and circuitry for some or all of its functionality.Alternatively, some or all of the various circuitry and componentsdescribed herein can be implemented in a user-wearable format such thatvarious interactive play effects and the like, as described herein, maybe actuated through particular hand or arm motions without the use of awand.

Additional optional circuitry and/or position sensors may be added, ifdesired, to allow the “magic wand” 100 to be operated by waiving,shaking, stroking and/or tapping it in a particular manner. If provided,these operational aspects would need to be learned by play participantsas they train in the various play environments. The ultimate goal, ofcourse, is to become a “grand wizard” or master of the wand. This meansthat the play participant has learned and mastered every aspect ofoperating the wand to produce desired effects within each playenvironment. Of course, additional effects and operational nuances can(and preferably are) always added in order to keep the interactiveexperience fresh and continually changing. Optionally, as shown anddiscussed in more detail in connection with FIG. 19G, the wand 100 maybe configured such that it is able to display 50 or more characters on aLTD or LCD screen. The wand may also be configured to respond to othersignals, such as light, sound, or voice commands as will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art.

Proximity Sensor

In yet another embodiment, the wand 100 further comprises a proximitysensor usable to provide a “hover” effect that is indicative of theinitialization of a control interlock. When the proximity sensor in thewand 100 is moved within a particular distance of a receiver, such asthe RF/IR receiver 150, and/or an effects controller, a “hover” effectoccurs, such as, for example, the turning on of a light, the movement orvibration of an object, or any other perceptible signal (visual oraudible) that notifies the user that a play effect may be initiated.

For instance, one embodiment of the invention may include a play effectthat comprises the moving of a book. When the user brings the wand 100within a predetermined distance from the book (e.g., one meter), theproximity sensor in the wand 100 causes the wand to output a commandsignal to a receiver and/or effects controller near the book to initiatea control interlock and to generate a “hover” effect, such as theturning on of a light. At this point, the user is notified that he orshe may then cast the appropriate spell, such as by appropriatelymotioning the wand 100, which causes the book to move. If the userattempts to cast the spell outside of the predetermined distance, thebook does not move. This is because the appropriate control interlock isnot initiated between the wand 100 and the receiver and/or effectscontroller.

Furthermore, the foregoing described “hover” effect may be used withpassive RFID technology to conserve energy or battery power of the wand100. In one embodiment, the wand 100 comprises a passive RFID circuit inaddition to an activation circuit (e.g., activation circuit 115 ofFIG. 1) and may operate in an “active” or a “sleep” mode. During thesleep mode, the activation circuit does not engage in significantactivity, which reduces the energy consumption of the wand 100. Inaddition, during the “sleep” mode, the user may not be able to castspells with the wand 100. When the passive RFID circuit of the wand 100is brought with a certain range of an RF transmitter, such as positionednear the effects controller, the passive RFID circuit receives thetransmitted RF signal and “awakens” the wand activation circuit into the“active” state. At this point, the user is able to engage in spellcasting, such as by motioning the wand, as is described herein. Infurther embodiments, a perceptible signal, such as a light or a noise,alerts the user when the wand 100 awakens to an “active” mode.

Although disclosed with reference to particular embodiments, a skilledartisan will recognize from the disclosure herein a wide variety ofmethods and/or devices usable to cause a “hover” effect. For example,the user may use certain voice commands, such as a particular magic wordor phrase, to cause the “hover” effect and to initiate a controlinterlock. In other embodiments, an RFID tag in the wand 100, thereceiver, and/or the effects controller is used to initiate the “hover”effect. In yet other embodiments, the proximity sensor is located remoteto the wand 100, such as near or in the receiver and/or effectscontroller.

Wand Operation

A magic wand as disclosed and described herein may be used to cast aninfinite possibility of “spells” or commands based on a single wandactivation circuit, a single learned wand motion and only a few uniquewand command signals selected using any of the various circuits andstructures described above in connection with FIGS. 14-16 (of coursemore complex operations are also possible and desirable). For example,using the wand 100 g illustrated and described in connection with FIGS.16A-16D a user can easily transmit three distinct command codes selectedby each of the three touch sensors 108, 110, 112. Touching either the“+” or the “−” symbols and waving the wand in the required motiontriggers the internal wand activation circuit and causes the wand totransmit a radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) signal corresponding toan “ON/CAST” or “OFF/BLOCK” command or spell, respectively. This can beuseful, for example, for turning on/off various play effects over longdistances (up to 100 meters) and for basic game play such as spellcasting competitions, target practice, and the like.

If it is desired to provide signal directionality so that the commandsignal or spell can be aimed or cast at various particular selected playeffects or objects, then a directional signal source such as IR and/ordirectionalized RF is preferably selected. Alternatively, a combinationof directional (e.g., IR) and omni-directional (e.g., RF) signal sourcesmay be used effectively to provide a desired directional spell-castingcapability. For example, a momentum-actuated switch or accelerometer(not shown) internally disposed within the tip of wand 100 can be usedto activate a directional signal source (e.g., a light bulb or L.E.D.shining a beam or cone of light) when a predetermined momentum force oracceleration is reached. Such a wand with internal wand activationcircuitry and/or a directional signal source may replace, for example, agun or a rifle in a conventional shooting gallery or target game such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,296,929 to Meyer et al. and U.S. Pat. No.5,785,592 to Jacobsen, both of which are incorporated by referenceherein in their entireties.

Waving and activating the wand while touching the “*” symbol preferablyinitiates the beginning of a “complex” spell comprising multiplecombinations of the first two (base-2 coding) or all three wand motions(base-3 coding). Of course, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat with three touch sensors, up to base-8 coding is possibly byincluding combinations of simultaneously activated sensors. Thus,various spell “recipes” or incantations can be described and carried outusing a sequence of individual commands and corresponding wand motionsas represented, for example, by the three distinct magic symbols. Table3, below, illustrates some examples of complex spells/commands that arepossible using base-3 coding.

TABLE 1 Spell Formula Effect + “on” or “cast spell” − “off” or “blockspell” * “start complex spell” *+ “move object” *− “stop object” *−*+“start/increase levitation” *−*− “stop/decrease levitation” *+*+“unlock/open door” ***− “lock/close door” *++ “Fire Spell” *+− “BlockFire spell” *+++ “Ice Spell” *++− “Block Ice Spell“

Using up to 6 combinations of 2 wand motions (base-2), wand users canproduce 126 different spells. Using up to 6 combinations of 3 wandmotions (base-3), wand users can produce 1092 different spells. Using upto 6 combinations of 8 wand motions (base-8) produces 299,592 differentpossible spells. There is virtually no limit to the number of differentspells that can be created and executed in this fashion. Preferably,once a complex spell is initiated and during each further step thereof atimer is initiated by the associated active receiver module and/oreffects controller. If an additional command signal is not receivedwithin a predetermined time period (e.g. 0.5-3 seconds) the complexspell is considered “completed” and the effects controller actuates theappropriate relay to trigger whatever appropriate effect(s) correspondto the complex spell received. If the spell is incomplete or isinaccurate in any way, preferably only a “swoosh” or similar soundeffect is triggered indicating that a spell was cast but did not work.

If desired, the active receiver module or associated effects controllercan also be configured to give users audible and/or visual cues as eachcomplex spell is being cast. This is in order to help users cast complexspells and help them identify when they have made a mistake or if theyare about to cast the wrong or an unintended spell. For example, variousthemed feedback effects such as glowing lights, halo effects orescalating sound effects can be provided as each step in a complex spellis successfully completed. Again, this helps users learn the spells andunderstand where they perhaps went wrong in casting a particular spell.It also helps users discover and learn new spells by trial and errorexperimentation and by memorizing various spell sequences/commands thatare observed to produce desired effects.

Preferably, users participate and advance in an interactive magicexperience or game over time (e.g., weeks, months or years) according toa predetermined progression of gaming levels, wand levels and/orexperience levels. For example, the various RF receivers disposed withina compatible play space could be programmed so that users of Level-1wands may only be able to cast spells by actually touching their wandsto whatever object they wish to control/actuate. Users of Level-2 wandswould be able to cast simple (e.g., on/cast and off/block) spells overshort and medium range distances, but not complex spells. Users ofLevel-3 wands would be able to cast simple spells (e.g., on/cast andoff/block) and some complex spells (e.g., spells requiring up to 3 wandmotions) over short, medium and long range distances, but not morecomplex spells requiring 4 or more wand motions. Users of Level-4 wandswould be able to cast all types and varieties of simple and complexspells over short, medium and long distances using any number of wandmotions as desired. Certain “master” level users may also be able toprogram or define their own spells and share them with other users.There is no limit to the number and complexity of spells andcorresponding special effects that may be created.

Wand levels can easily be set and changed, for example, by accessing theinternal circuitry of each wand and flipping various dip switches tochange the address or coding of the internal RF/IR transmitter.Alternatively, within a play facility wand levels may be set and storedat the receiver/controller level by tracking each wand unique ID code(UPIN/UGIN) and using a computer and an indexed data-base to look up thecorresponding wand level and any other relevant gaming informationassociated with each unique UPIN/UGIN. Preferably, when a user reachesthe appropriate number of points or experience for advancement to thenext level, a special congratulatory effect is actuated and the user isthereby notified that he or she has earned additional magic powers. Ifdesired, a short graduation ceremony may be presided over by a “GrandWizard” while the user's wand is upgraded with new magic powers (e.g.,insertion of new electronics and/or adjustment of various dip switches,circuit jumpers, combinations of the same or the like).

Wand Fabrication, Assembly and Detailing

One particularly exciting and rewarding aspect of an immersiveinteractive magic experience in accordance with the present invention isproviding users with an opportunity to select, build and/or decoratetheir own magic wands. Accordingly, preferably all or most of the wandcomponents are standardized, modularized and interchangeable so thatvarious prefabricated wand components and starting materials can bestocked (e.g., in a “wizards workshop”) and individually purchased byusers to create an endless variety of unique and individualized finishedwands having evolving powers, abilities and/or aesthetics.

For the most fully immersive experience possible it is most desirablethat users are not distracted by the underlying technology that makesthe wand work, but simply enjoy the immersive fantasy experience ofpracticing, performing and mastering “real” magic using a “real” magicwand. Thus, preferably most, if not all, of the wand components aresimple in outward appearance and preferably contain no conspicuousoutward manifestations (or have only minimal outward manifestations) ofthe technology within. Wand materials and components fabricated fromnatural or simulated natural materials, such as wood, bone leather,minerals (metals) and crystals are particularly preferred, althoughcertainly not required.

The base wand component comprises the wand shaft 110. This may be ahollow plastic, wood or metal shaft provided in various materials andcolors. For beginners or entry level users, a finished wand may beconstructed by simply selecting a wand shaft 110 and then fitting itwith one or more magnetic end caps 216, as illustrated. This provides aentry level wand (Level-1) that can be used to activate a variety ofsimple effects such as illustrated and described above in connectionwith FIGS. 17A-17C. If desired, a small wood lathe 230 can be used tocreate a custom wand handle 120 fabricated from a selected wood stockand a user's choice of any one of a number of available templatepatterns. If further desired, the end of the handle may becenter-drilled to accommodate a threaded stud 121, bolt or other meansfor removably securing a selected decorative metal, wood and/or crystalknob 123 a-123 f. Such knobs may comprise, for example, any one of anumber of standard, internally threaded cabinet knobs or drawer-pullssuch as available from Emtek Products Inc. A Level-1 wand constructed inthis fashion preferably facilitates basic game play within a compatibleplay facility, but is not fully functional and, therefore, may not becapable of achieving some of the more desirable play effects or playexperiences available.

The next level wand (Level-2) would preferably include, in addition, asimple passive RFID transponder 118 inserted and secured at one endthereof. The transponder 118 provides relatively short-range RFcommunications and also stores a unique person identifier number(“UPIN”) and an optional unique group identifier number (“UGIN”). TheUPIN and UGIN may be used to identify and track individual wands andplay participants. The RFID transponder 118 also stores certaininformation identifying each play participant and/or describing certainpowers or abilities possessed by an imaginary role-play characterrepresented by the wand. These stored character attributes may be easilyand conveniently transported with the wand to various compatible playfacilities, games, video games, home game consoles, hand-held gameunits, and the like. If desired, the transponder 118 may be encapsulatedin a colored epoxy, Lucite or the like and thereby disguised as anatural crystal or mineral/stone. A Level-2 wand preferably facilitatesbasic and intermediate game play within a compatible play facility. Ithas more functionality than a Level-1 wand, but is still not fullyfunctional and, therefore, may not be capable of achieving some of themost desirable play effects or play experiences available.

The next level wand (Level-3) would preferably include, in addition, anactive RF/IR module and associated wand activation circuitry forwirelessly casting a simple spell (e.g., ON/OFF) over longer distances.For example, this would be similar to the wand 100 d, illustrated anddescribed above in connection with FIG. 12. Preferably, the wand wouldbe self powered, requiring no batteries or other replaceable internalpower source. However, if replaceable batteries are desired, they mayoptionally be encapsulated in a colored epoxy, Lucite or the like andthereby disguised and sold in the form of a natural “energy crystal” ormineral/stone. A Level-3 wand preferably facilitates basic, intermediateand some advanced game play within a compatible play facility. It hasmore functionality than a Level-1 and Level-2 wand and can cast simplespells over long distances, but is not able to cast more complex spells.Therefore, it may not be capable of achieving some of the most advancedand desirable play effects or play experiences available.

The highest level wand (Level-4) would preferably include, in addition,circuitry and/or structure(s) for selecting and casting more advancedand/or complex spells (e.g., ON/OFF, increase/decrease, UP/DOWN, changecolors, simulated levitation, or the like). For example, this would besimilar to the wands 100 f-100 h, illustrated and described above inconnection with FIGS. 14-16. Preferably, the wand would be self powered,requiring no batteries or other replaceable internal power source. ALevel-4 wand preferably facilitates basic, intermediate and all advancedgame play within a compatible play facility. It has more functionalitythan a Level-1, Level-2 and Level-3 wand and can cast a variety ofsimple or complex spells over long distances to achieve the mostadvanced and spectacular magical play effects.

Preferably, in all cases described above, the wand shaft 110, handle 120and/or knob 123 may be further decorated and/or individualized, asdesired, with various monograms, engravings, stickers, stains, custompaint and the like, to suit the tastes of each individual user. Forexample, various assembly and fabrication stations may preferably beprovided within a dedicated “workshop” area whereby wand purchasers maypersonally attend to the selection, fabrication, assembly and finaldetailing of their personal wands. Similarly, wand “kits” may also beselected, packaged and sold whereby purchasers can assemble and decoratetheir own wands in the convenience of their own home using the wandcomponents, materials and decorative elements illustrated and describedabove. FIGS. 19A-19P illustrate various examples of wands, wand handlesor grips, wand add-ons, and wand knobs that have been fabricated,assembled and detailed in a manner as described above.

RFID Tags/Transponders

Many of the preferred embodiments of the invention illustrated anddescribed above are RFID-enabled—that is, they utilize RFID technologyto electrically store and communicate certain relevant information(e.g., UPIN and UGIN, game levels, points, combinations of the same orthe like) and/or to wirelessly actuate or control various magical playeffects. RFID technology provides a universal and wireless medium foruniquely identifying objects and/or people and for wirelessly exchanginginformation over short and medium range distances (10 cm to 10 meters).Commercially available RFID technologies include electronic devicescalled transponders or tags, and reader/writer electronics that providean interface for communicating with the tags. Most RFID systemscommunicate via radio signals that carry data either uni-directionally(read only) or, more preferably, bi-directionally (read/write).

Several examples of RFID tags or transponders particularly suitable foruse with the present invention have been illustrated and describedherein. For example, in the particular preferred embodiments illustratedand described above, a 134.2 kHz/123.2 kHz, 23 mm glass transponder ispreferably selected, such as available from Texas Instruments, Inc.(http://www.tiris.com, e.g., Product No. RI-TRP-WRHP). As illustrated inFIG. 21A, this transponder basically comprises a passive (batteryless)RF transmitter/receiver chip 240 and an antenna 245 provided within anhermetically sealed vial 250. A protective silicon sheathing 255 ispreferably inserted around the sealed vial 250 between the vial and theinner wall of the tube 110 to insulate the transponder from shock andvibration. If desired, the RFID transponder 118 may be modified toprovide an optional external interrupt/disable line 260, such asillustrated in FIG. 21A and as described in more detail above inconnection with FIGS. 1 and 5.

However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from thedisclosure herein that the invention is not limited to the specific RFIDtransponder devices disclosed herein, but may be implemented using anyone or more of a wide variety of commercially available wirelesscommunication devices such as are known or will be obvious from thedisclosure herein to those skilled in the art. These include, withoutlimitation, RFID tags, EAS tags, electronic surveillance transmitters,electronic tracking beacons, Wi-Fi, GPS, bar coding, and the like.

Of particular interest for purposes of practicing the present inventionis the wide variety of low-cost RFID tags that are available in the formof a printed circuit on a thin, flat adhesive-backed substrate or foil.For example, the 13.56 mHz RFID tag sold under the brand name Tag-It™and available from Texas Instruments, Inc. (http://www.tiris.com,Product No. RI-103-110A) has particular advantages in the context of thepresent invention. Paper thin and batteryless, this general purposeread/write transponder is placed on a polymer tape substrate anddelivered in reels. It fits between layers of laminated paper or plasticto create inexpensive stickers, labels, tickets and badges. Tag-It™inlays have a useful read/write range of about 25 cm and contain 256bits of on-board memory arranged in 8×32-bit blocks which may beprogrammed (written) and read by a suitably configured read/writedevice. Such tag device is useful for storing and retrieving desireduser-specific information such as UPIN, UGIN, first and/or last name,age, rank or level, total points accumulated, tasks completed,facilities visited, etc. If a longer read/write range and/or more memoryis desired, optional battery-powered tags may be used instead, such asavailable from ACXESS, Inc. and/or various other vendors known to thoseskilled in the art.

Another RFID tagging technology of particular interest for purposes ofpracticing the present invention are the so-called “chipless” RFID tags.These are extremely low-cost RFID tags that are available in the form ofa printed circuit on a thin, flat adhesive. These tags are similar insize, shape and performance to the Tag-It™ inlays described above,except that these tags require no on-board integrated circuit chip.Chipless RFID tags can be electronically interrogated to reveal apre-encoded unique ID and/or other data stored on the tag. Because thetags do not contain a microchip, they cost much less than conventionalRFID tags. An adhesive-backed chipless RFID tag with up to 10 metersrange and 256 bits of data, can cost one tenth of their silicon chipequivalents and typically have a greater physical performance anddurability. For example, a suitable chipless RFID tag is being madeavailable from Checkpoint Systems under its ExpressTrak™ brand. Veryinexpensive chipless RFID tags (and/or other types of RFID tags) mayalso be directly printed on paper or foil substrates using variousconductive inks and the like, such as are available from Parelec Inc.under its Parmod VLT™ brand.

In the context of carrying out an interactive gaming experience, playexperience or entertainment experience, such as the type generallydisclosed and described herein, such adhesive-backed tag devices and thelike are highly advantageous. They are inexpensive, disposable, and maybe easily secured or applied to virtually any play object, wand,wristband, badge, card or the like, for electronically storing andretrieving desired user-specific or object-specific information. Suchinformation may include, for example, UPIN, UGIN, objecttype/size/shape/color, first and/or last name, age, rank or level, totalpoints accumulated, tasks completed, facilities visited, combinations ofthe same or the like. For example, FIG. 20A illustrates one preferredembodiment of a wand toy 100 i having an adhesive-backed RFID tag 322secured thereon for enabling the wand 100 i to interact with variousplay effects located within an RFID-enabled play facility or playenvironment. FIG. 20B illustrates a second preferred embodiment of awand toy 100 j having an adhesive-backed RFID tag 322 secured thereonfor enabling the wand 100 j to interact with various play effectslocated within an RFID-enabled play facility or play environment.Similar RFID tags may also be applied to any of the other wands 100 a-hdisclosed and described herein or any other toys, play objects, jewelry,trinkets, action figures, collectibles, trading cards and generally anyother items desired to be incorporated as part of an RFID-enabled gamingexperience.

FIGS. 20E and 20F illustrate one possible preferred embodiment of a keychain trinket 321 incorporating an RFID tag 322 suitable for use invarious RFID-enabled gaming and entertainment experiences as disclosedherein. Such RFID-enabled items not only make the overall gaming andentertainment experience more exciting and enjoyable, but they cancreate unique branding opportunities and additional lucrative revenuesources for a play facility owners/operators. Moreover, andadvantageously, character attributes developed during a play aparticipant's visit to a local play facility are stored on the tag 322.When the play participant then revisits the same or another compatibleplay facility, all of the attributes of his character are “remembered”on the tag so that the play participant is able to continue playing withand developing the same role-play character. Similarly, various videogames, home game consoles, and/or hand-held game units can be andpreferably are configured to communicate with the tag in a similarmanner as described above and/or using other well-known informationstorage and communication techniques. In this manner, a play participantcan use the same role play character he or she has developed withspecific associated attributes in a favorite video action game,role-play computer game or the like.

Trading cards incorporating RFID tags are also particularly advantageousin the context of an interactive role-playing game such as disclosedherein. For example, FIGS. 20C and 20D are front and rear views,respectively, of an optional RFID-enabled trading card 325 for usewithin an interactive gaming experience as described herein. Forexample, such RFID-enabled trading cards may be used instead of or as anadjunct to the wand 100 with RFID transponder 118 as illustrated anddescribed above in connection with FIG. 1. Each card 325 preferablycomprises a paper, cardboard or plastic substrate having a front side328 and a back side 330. The front 328 of the card 325 may be imprintedwith graphics, photos, or any other information as desired. In theparticular embodiment illustrated, the front 328 contains an image of amagical wizard character 332 in keeping with an overall magic or wizardtheme. In addition, the front 328 of the card may include any number ofother designs or information 334 pertinent to its use and application inthe game. For example, the character's special magic powers, skills andexperience level may be indicated, along with any other special powersor traits the character may possess.

The obverse side 330 of the card preferably contains the cardelectronics comprising an RFID tag 336 pre-programmed with the pertinentinformation for the particular person, character or object portrayed onthe front of the card. The tag 336 generally comprises a spiral woundantenna 338, a radio frequency transmitter chip 340 and variouselectrical leads and terminals 342 connecting the chip to the antenna.If desired, the tag may be covered with an adhesive paper label 344 or,alternatively, the tag may be molded directly into a plastic sheetsubstrate from which the card is formed. Preferably, the tag 336 ispassive (requires no batteries) so that it is inexpensive to purchaseand maintain. The particular tag illustrated is the 13.56 mHz tag soldunder the brand name TaggIt™ available from Texas Instruments, Inc.(http://www.tiris.com, Product No. RI-103-110A). The tag may be“read/write” or “read only”, depending on its particular gamingapplication. Optionally, less expensive chipless tags may also be usedwith equal efficacy.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosureherein that a variety of trading card designs having features andadvantages as disclosed herein may be used to play a wide variety ofunique and exciting games within an RFID-enabled play facility and/orusing an RFID-enabled gaming device or game console. Alternatively,persons skilled in the art will appreciate from the disclosure hereinthat such games may be carried out using a conventional computer gamingplatform, home game console, arcade game console, hand-held game device,internet gaming device or other gaming device that includes an RFIDinterface. Advantageously, play participants can use trading cards 325to transport information pertinent to a particular depicted person,character or object to a favorite computer action game, adventure game,interactive play facility or the like. For example, a suitablyconfigured video game console and video game may be provided which readsthe card information and recreates the appearance and/or traits ofparticular depicted person, character of object within the game. Ifdesired, the game console may further be configured to write informationto the card in order to change or update certain characteristics ortraits of the character, person or object depicted by the card 325 inaccordance with a predetermined game play progression.

Advantageously, RFID-enabled character trading cards and charactertraits, including special powers, and the like, need not be static inthe game, but may change over time according to a central story or talethat unfolds in real time (e.g., through televised shows or moviesreleased over the course of weeks, months or years). Thus, a charactertrading card that may be desirable for game play this week (e.g., forits special magic powers or abilities), may be less desirable next weekif the underlying character is injured or captured in the most recentepisode of the story. Another significant and surprising advantage ofRFID-enabled trading cards is that multiple cards can be stacked andsimultaneously read by a single RFID reader even where the cards areclosely stacked on top of one another and even though the reader may behidden from view. This feature and ability creates limitless additionalopportunities for exciting game complexities, unique game designs andgaming strategies heretofore unknown.

FIGS. 33A-33D are front views of various alternative embodiments ofpossible role-play character cards for use within a HarryPotter/Hogwarts interactive play structure. See, for example, U.S. Pat.No. 6,761,637 to Weston, incorporated herein by reference, whichdescribes an interactive play structure in the theme of a “magic”training center for would-be wizards in accordance with the popularcharacters and storylines of the children's book series “Harry Potter”by J. K Rowling. Role play cards 600 are preferably constructedsubstantially the same as the card 325 illustrated and described abovein connection with FIGS. 20C, 20D, except with different characterillustrations and/or graphics. For example, each card 600 may include adifferent character from a Harry Potter storyline representing arole-play character desired to be imagined by a play participant. Theobverse side (not shown) includes an RFID tag, such as illustrated anddescribed above in connection with FIG. 20D. Alternatively, a magnetic“swipe” strip and/or other well known information storage means may beused with efficacy, so long as it is relatively compact, durable andinexpensive.

The particular size, shape and theme of the cards 600 is relativelyunimportant. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the cards 600 areshaped and themed so as to be used as bookmarks for Harry Potter seriesbooks. These may be packaged and sold together with each Harry Potterbook, or they may be sold separately as novelty items or the like. Ifdesired, a hole or eyelet 610 may be provided at the top of each card600 so as to facilitate wearing the card 600 as a pendant on a necklace620 or as key-chain trinket. Smaller, pocket-sized cards and/or othersimilar RFID or magnetic transponder devices may also be used whereconvenience and market demand dictates. Such transponder devices arecommercially available, such as from Texas Instruments, Inc.(http://www.tiris.com, e.g., Prod. Nos. RI-TRPW9WK, RI-TRP-R9QL,RI-TRP-WFOB).

Of course, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from thedisclosure herein that the underlying concept of an RFID-enabled card325 and card game is not limited to cards depicting fantasy charactersor objects, but may be implemented in a wide variety of alternativeembodiments, including conventional playing cards, poker cards, boardgame cards and tokens, sporting cards, educational cards and the like.If desired, any number of other suitable collectible/tradable tokens,coins, trinkets, simulated crystals or the like may also be provided andused with a similar RFID tag device for gaming or entertainment purposesin accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

For example, RFID tag devices may be included on “magic articles” thatmay be purchased or acquired in a gaming or interactive play system. Forinstance, a user may purchase an invisibility cloak, magic beads, belts,and the like during an interactive play experience. The RFID tags may beused to communicate to a central database that a certain person haspurchased or is possession of the tagged item. The central database maythen track the tagged items and/or may cause those in possession of thetagged items to have increased “magical” skills or powers, such asadditional protection from the spells “cast” by opposing players.

RFID Readers/Writers

In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention variousRFID readers and associated play effects are distributed throughout anentertainment facility and are able to read the RFID tags describedherein and to actuate or control one or more effects in responsethereto. For example, the UPIN and UGIN information can be convenientlyread and provided to an associated computer, central network, displaysystem or other tracking, recording or display device for purposes ofinteracting with an associated effect and/or creating a record of eachplay participant's experience within the play facility. This informationmay be used for purposes of interactive game play, tracking andcalculating individual or team scores, tracking and/or locating lostchildren, verifying whether or not a child is inside a facility, photocapture and retrieval, and many other useful purposes as will be readilyobvious and apparent from the disclosure herein to those skilled in theart.

FIG. 21B is a simplified schematic diagram of one embodiment of an RFIDreader/writer 300 for use with the wand and RFID transponder 118 of FIG.21A. A preferred reader/writer device is the Series 2000 Micro Readeravailable from Texas Instruments, Inc. (http://www.tiris.com, e.g.,Product No. RI-STU-MRD1). As illustrated, the reader/writer 300basically comprises an RF Module 302, a Control Unit 304 and an antenna306. When the distal end of wand 100 and its internally containedtransponder 118 comes within a predetermined range of antenna 306 (about20-200 cm) the transponder antenna 245 is excited by the radiated RFfields 308 and momentarily creates a corresponding voltage signal whichpowers RF transmitter/receiver chip 240. In turn, the RFtransmitter/receiver chip 240 outputs an electrical signal responsewhich causes transponder antenna 245 to broadcast certain informationstored within the transponder 235 comprising, for example, 80 to 1000bits of information stored in its internal memory. This informationpreferably includes a unique user ID (UPIN/UGIN), magic level or rankand/or certain other items of information pertinent to the user, thewand and/or the game or play experience.

A carrier signal embodying this information is received by antenna 306of RFID reader/writer 300. RF Module 302 decodes the received signal andprovides the decoded information to Control Unit 304. Control Unit 304processes the information and provides it to an associated logiccontroller, PID controller, computer or the like using a variety ofstandard electrical interfaces (not shown). Thus, the informationtransmitted by transponder 118 and received by reader/writer 300 may beused to control one or more associated play effects through aprogrammable logic controller, for example. In one embodiment, theinformation transmitted includes data relating to the activation of thesensors 122,124 of the wand 100. In other embodiments, the transmittedinformation may include timing information, such as the duration of timethat a sensor is activated and/or the duration of time betweensuccessive activations of the sensors 122, 124. Play effects, mayinclude, for example, lighting effects, sound effects, variousmechanical or pneumatic actuators and the like.

Preferably, RFID reader/writer 300 is also configured to broadcast or“write” certain information back to the transponder 118 to change orupdate information stored in its internal memory, for example. Theexchange of communications occurs very rapidly (about 70 ms) and so,from the user's perspective, it appears to be virtually instantaneous.Thus, the wand 100 may be used to “magically” actuate and/or communicatewith various associated effects by simply touching or bringing the tipof the wand 100 into relatively close proximity with the antenna 306 ofa reader/writer unit 300.

As indicated above, communication of data between a tag and a reader isby wireless communication. As a result, transmitting such data is alwayssubject to the vagaries and influences of the media or channels throughwhich the data has to pass, including the air interface. Noise,interference and distortion are the primary sources of data corruptionthat may arise. Thus, those skilled in the art will recognize that acertain degree of care should be taken in the placement and orientationof readers 300 so as to minimize the probability of such datatransmission errors. Preferably, the readers are placed at least 30-60cm away from any metal objects, power lines or other potentialinterference sources. Those skilled in the art will also recognize thatthe write range of the tag/reader combination is typically somewhat less(˜10-15% less) than the read range and, thus, this should also be takeninto account in determining optimal placement and positioning of eachreader device 300.

Typical RFID data communication is asynchronous or unsynchronized innature and, thus, particular attention should be given in consideringthe form in which the data is to be communicated. Structuring the bitstream to accommodate these needs, such as via a channel encodingscheme, is preferred in order to provide reliable system performance.Various suitable channel encoding schemes, such as amplitude shiftkeying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK) andspread spectrum modulation (SSM), are well know to those skilled in theart and will not be further discussed herein. The choice of carrier wavefrequency is also important in determining data transfer rates.Generally speaking the higher the frequency the higher the data transferor throughput rates that can be achieved. This is intimately linked tobandwidth or range available within the frequency spectrum for thecommunication process. Preferably, the channel bandwidth is selected tobe at least twice the bit rate required for the particular gameapplication.

FIG. 21C is a simplified circuit schematic of the reader/writer unit 300of FIG. 21B. The read or write cycle begins with a charge (or poweringphase) lasting typically 15-50 ms. During this phase, the RF Module 302causes the antenna 306 to emit an electromagnetic field at a frequencyof about 134.2 kHz. The antenna circuit is mainly formed by theresonance capacitor C1 and the antenna coil 306. A counterpart resonantcircuit of the transponder 118 is thereby energized and the inducedvoltage is rectified by the integrated circuit 240 and storedtemporarily using a small internal capacitor (not shown).

The charge phase is followed directly by the read phase (read mode).Thus, when the transponder 118 detects the end of the charge burst, itbegins transmitting its data using Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) andutilizing the energy stored in the capacitor. The typical data low bitfrequency is 134.2 kHz and the typical data high bit frequency is 123.2kHz. The low and high bits have different duration, because each bittakes 16 RF cycles to transmit. The high bit has a typical duration of130 μs, the low bit of 119 μs. Regardless of the number of low and highbits, the transponder response duration is generally less than about 20ms.

The carrier signal embodying the transmitted information is received byantenna 306 and is decoded by RF module 302. RF Module 302 comprisesintegrated circuitry 312 that provides the interface between thetransponder 118 and the Control Module 304 (data processing unit) of theReader/Writer Unit 300. It has the primary function and capability tocharge up the transponder 118, to receive the transponder responsesignal and to demodulate it for further digital data processing.

A Control Unit 304, comprising microprocessor 314, power supply 316 andRS232 Driver 318, handles most data protocol items and the detailed fasttiming functions of the Reader/Writer Module 300. It may also operate asinterface for a PC, logic controller or PLC controller for handingdisplay and command input/output functions, for example, foroperating/actuating various associated play effects.

Long Range Transmitter and Receiver

If desired, the wand 100 may also be configured for long rangecommunications with one or more of the transceivers 300 (or otherreceivers) disposed within a play environment. For example, one or moretransceivers 300 may be located on a roof or ceiling surface, on aninaccessible theming element, or other area out of reach of playparticipants. Such long-range wand operation may be readily achievedusing an auxiliary battery powered RF transponder, such as availablefrom Axcess, Inc., Dallas, Tex. If line of sight or directionalactuation is desired, a battery-operated infrared LED transmitter andreceiver of the type employed in television remote controls may be used,as those skilled in the art will readily appreciate. Of course, a widevariety of other wireless communications devices, as well as varioussound and lighting effects may also be provided, as desired.

In many of the preferred embodiments of the invention as illustrated anddescribed herein it is disclosed to use a radio frequency (RF) and/orinfrared (IR) transmitter to send wand command signals over relativelylong range distances (e.g., 10-100 meters or more). For example, wand100A illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 7 includes aninternal RF/IR Module 150 for communicating various command signals toone or more remote RF/IR receivers and associated effects. Commandsignal receivers may be located, for example, on a remote roof orceiling surface of a compatible play facility, a retail mall,restaurant, destination resort facility or even an outdoor public playarea. Internal RF/IR Module 150 can comprise any number of small,inexpensive RF transmitters such as are commercially available fromAxcess, Inc., of Dallas, Tex. If directionality is desired, any numberof small, inexpensive infrared LED transmitters may be used, such as thetype commonly employed in television remote controls, keyless entrysystems and the like.

FIG. 22A is a schematic block diagram of a particularly preferredtransmitter module 150 adapted for use in accordance with the presentinvention. The transmitter module 150 generally comprises an RFtransmitter 358 driven and controlled by a microprocessor or ASIC 350.ASIC 350 includes address storage module 352, data storage module 354and shift register 356. Address storage module 352 includes a storedaddress or coded value, for example, in parallel bit format, that is apreselected coded value that may be uniquely associated with aparticular transmitter module 150. Address storage module 352 appliesthe address coded value to an encoder, such as shift register 356 which,when enabled, encodes the coded value by converting it from parallel bitformat to serial bit format which is applied to radio frequency (RF)transmitter 358. Similarly, data storage module 354 may include codeddata or commands provided by a user (e.g., via any of the variouscommand input circuits and structures described above in connection withFIGS. 14-16). Data storage module 354 applies the coded data values toshift register 356 which, when enabled, encodes the coded data byconverting it from parallel bit format to serial bit format which isalso applied to radio frequency (RF) transmitter 358. Radio frequencytransmitter 358 modulates the coded address and data values which isencoded in serial bit format onto a radio frequency carrier signal whichis transmitted as an RF output signal (RF_(Out)) such as via a simpleloop antenna.

Application of electrical power from an internal battery source 152 (orone or more self-generating power sources as described herein) ispreferably controlled via wand activation circuitry 115 such asillustrated and described above in connection with FIGS. 1-6. Thus,transmitter module 150, address storage module 352, data storage module354, shift register 356 and/or RF transmitter 358, are preferably onlypowered for a short period of time when the wand circuitry 115 issuccessfully actuated and a corresponding command signal is to betransmitted. Those skilled in the art will recognize from the disclosureherein that transmitter module 150 may be implemented in a variety ofknown electrical technologies, such as discrete electronic circuitsand/or integrated circuits. An implementation employing an integratedmicroprocessor or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 350is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 22A. Preferably, integrated circuitrytechnology and/or surface mount componentry is used to reduce thephysical size of the circuit 150 such that it is able to fit within therelatively small cavity 116 of wand shaft 110 or handle 120 (see FIG.1).

FIG. 23A is a schematic block diagram of receiver module 362 whichoperates in conjunction with transmitter module 150 previouslydescribed. Radio frequency command signals transmitted by transmittermodule 150 are provided as input signals (RF_(In)) to RF receiver 363which may comprise a simple tuned circuit with loop antenna (not shown).Command signals received by RF receiver 363 are applied to a decoder,such as shift register 364 which converts the coded value therein from aserial bit format to a parallel bit format. Address comparator 366receives at one input the transmitter module coded address value inparallel bit format from shift register 364 and at its other input apreselected fixed or dynamically stored coded value from address storage368. The preselected coded value from address storage 368 corresponds tothe preselected coded value of the transmitter module 150 with whichreceiver module 362 is associated or compatible. In other words, thepreselected coded value stored in transmitter address storage 352 oftransmitter module 150 is the same as or compatible with a preselectedcoded value as is stored in address storage 368 of receiver module 362with which it is associated or compatible. If the coded address value inthe received command signal matches all or a predetermined portion ofthe preselected fixed or dynamic coded value stored in address storage368, this coincidence is detected by address comparator 370 and isapplied to restart or reset receive timer 372. Receive timer 372preferably has a time-out period of, for example, 0.5-3 seconds and, ifit is not restarted or reset within this time period, it produces acommand termination signal which tells an associated controller 374 toprocess the received command signals(s) and to actuate one or morecorresponding play effects such as lighting effects 376, sound effects377 and motorized actuators 378. In other embodiments, the receive timer372 may determine the type and/or intensity of the play effect based onthe amount of time between command signals. For example, shorterdurations of time between command signals may cause higher-intensityplay effects, and longer durations of time may cause lower-intensityplay effects. Each of the functional elements of receiver module 362 andcontroller 374 receive electrical power from a suitable power source380, as illustrated.

In operation, a user activates circuitry 150 by appropriately waving ormoving the wand. This causes electrical voltage from battery 150 to beapplied across the RF transmitter module 150, thereby causing the RFtransmitter module 150 to transmit a desired command signal (RF_(Out))including coded address and optional coded data information. This signalis received and decoded by receiver module 362 as input signal(RF_(In)). The decoded transmitter address information is compared to afixed or dynamically stored coded value from address storage 368.Preferably, an immediate effect such as a pulsing light or sound isactuated by controller 374 in order to provide visual and/or aural cuesthat a command signal was received. Receive timer 372 is initiated andthe RF receiver module 362 awaits the next command signal. If no furthersignal is received before the time times out, then the spell is assumedto be complete and the controller 374 is instructed to process thereceived command signal(s) and actuate the appropriate relay(s) therebytriggering whatever appropriate effect(s) correspond to the spellreceived. Preferably, as noted above, if the spell is incomplete or isinaccurate only a “swoosh” or similar sound effect is triggeredindicating that a spell was cast but did not work. For simple spells, afixed coded value may be stored in address storage 368. For complexspells, the stored coded value may be dynamically changed to match anexpected or required series or progression of command signals.Alternatively, address storage 368 may be fixed and command signals maybe carried and communicated to controller 374 as decoded datacorresponding to data stored in data storage module 354 (FIG. 22A).

For applications supporting multiple wands (i.e., multiple RFtransmitter modules 150) within a single play space, the addresscomparator 366 of receiver module 362 is preferably configured to accepteither: (1) a range of valid “compatible” addresses from the set of RFtransmitter modules 150; or (2) any valid address from a list of validaddresses stored in address storage module 368. In the first case, eachtransmitter module 150 within a defined group of transmitter modules(e.g., all Level-1 wands) would preferably be configured to have a codedaddress value having a portion of address bits that are identical and aportion of address bits that may be unique, but unique data bits asselected by each user. The receiver module 362, upon detecting acompatible address bit sequence, decodes the data bits thereof and setsa latch selected by those particular data bits. A number of suchlatches, may be provided, for example, for recognizing anddistinguishing further such command signals originating from multipleusers and/or wands. In the second case, the receiver module 362 stores alist of specific coded values, i.e. valid addresses, in a memory, suchas memory 368, and as transmitted addresses are received, they arecompared to the valid addresses in this list. Thus, only signalstransmitted by RF transmitter modules that are on the list of validaddresses are accepted by receiver module 362. In this manner, forexample, command signals sent by Level-1 wands can be distinguished fromcommand signals sent by Level-2 wands, which can be distinguished fromLevel-3 wands, etc.

Although the transmitter module 150 of FIG. 22A and the receiver module362 of FIG. 23A are described with reference to RF technology, a skilledartisan will recognize from the disclosure herein that other types ofwireless technology may also be used. For example, FIG. 22B depicts anIR transmitter module 150′ having an IR transmitter 358′ that may beused to transmit signals such as the type commonly employed intelevision remote controls, keyless entry systems and the like. Theother components of the IR transmitter module 150′ may also be modifiedsuch that the IR transmitter module 150′ is capable of functioningsimilarly to the RF transmitter module 150 discussed with reference toFIG. 22A. In addition, FIG. 23B illustrates an IR receiver module 362′having an IR receiver 363′ usable to operate with the IR transmittermodule 150′ of FIG. 22B. The other components of the IR receiver module362′ may also be modified such that the IR receiver module 363′ iscapable of functioning similarly to the RF receiver module 363 discussedwith reference to FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24 is a schematic block diagram of a portion of a receiver module362″ including an embodiment of address comparator 370′ and of addressstorage 368′ particularly suited for operating with a plurality ofsimultaneously operating transmitter modules 150 or 150′. For example,blocks in FIG. 24 that are the same as blocks in FIG. 23A and describedabove are shown in phantom and are identified by the same numericdesignation as in FIG. 23A. Address storage 368′ includes addressableregisters or memory 386 in which are stored the preselected codedidentification values corresponding to the preselected codedidentification value of each of a plurality of compatible RF transmittermodules 150 desired to be operably associated with receiver 362″.Address selector 388 repetitively generates a sequence of addressesincluding the addresses of all the registers of addressable register 386within a relatively short time period less than about 50-100milliseconds. Thus the complete set of preselected stored coded valuesare applied to one input of coded value comparator 390 whereby thereceived coded identification value received and decoded at the outputof shift register 364 and applied to the other input of coded valuecomparator 390 is compared to each one of the stored coded values of theset thereof stored in addressable register 386.

Although the receiver module 362″ of FIG. 24 is disclosed with referenceto particular embodiments, a skilled artisan will recognize from thedisclosure herein a wide variety of alternative structures and uses forthe receiver module 362″. For example, the receiver module 362″ may becapable of receiving an IR signal and structured similarly to the IRreceiver module 362′ of FIG. 23B.

Comparator 370′ preferably includes a latch circuit 392 having anaddressable latch corresponding to each register in addressable register386 and that is addressed by the same address value generated by addressselector 388 to address register 386. When there is a match at theinputs of coded value comparator 390 between the received coded valueand the then produced stored coded value, the occurrence of the match isstored by setting the designated corresponding latch in latch circuit392. If received coded identification values corresponding to all of thestored fixed coded values are received and properly decoded, then all ofthe latches in latch circuit 392 will be set, thereby making a “true”condition at the inputs of AND gate 294 and causing its output to become“true”. This “true” signal from AND gate 294 resets receive timer 372,as described above in connection with FIG. 23A, and also activates areset circuit 296 to reset all the latches of latch circuit 392 so thatthe comparison sequence of received coded identification values to theset of stored fixed coded values begins again. If all of the preselectedreceived coded values are not received, then all of the latches in latchcircuit 392 are not set, the output of AND gate 294 does not become“true”, and receive timer 372 times out and issues the commandtermination signal discussed above.

FIG. 25 is a detailed electrical schematic diagram of an exemplaryembodiment of transmitter module 150 illustrated and discussed above.Electrical power is provided by one or more batteries 152 and/or otherpower sources as illustrated and described herein. This power ispreferably switched by wand activation circuit 115 and/or optional timermodule 402. Electrical power is provided via diode D2 to the transmittimer U1, such as an integrated circuit one-shot multivibrator typeLM555 available from National Semiconductor Corporation. The time-outinterval of multivibrator U1 is established by resistors R2, R3 andcapacitor C1 which need not be high precision components. When wandactivation circuit 115 is activated, a voltage is applied throughresister R1 to the gate of a transistor Q1. This causes electrical powerto be applied from battery 152 to a five-volt voltage regulator U4 suchas a type LM78L05 also available from National SemiconductorCorporation. Alternatively, the periodic output from U1 may be appliedto the gate of a transistor Q1 to the same effect (e.g., for sendingperiodic “beacon” transmissions).

Regulated voltage from regulator U4 is applied to shift register 356(pin 18) and RF transmitter 358. Shift register 356 is implemented by anencoder integrated circuit U2 such as a 212 series encoder type HT12Eavailable from Holtek Microelectronics in Hsinchu, Taiwan, R.O.C.Non-volatile address storage 352 is implemented by twelve single poleswitches in switch packages SW1 and SW2 which are set to produce atwelve-bit coded value which is applied in parallel bit format toencoder integrated circuit U2 of shift register 356. Once set by themanufacturer or the user, the preselected coded value stored in addressstorage 352 is fixed and will not change absent human intervention.However, in alternative embodiments SW2 may be replaced in whole or inpart by wand command selection circuitry such as touch switches, mercurytilt switches and the like illustrated and described above in connectionwith FIGS. 14-16. Such circuitry enables users to actively select andchange the coded data impressed upon address lines 8-10 of encoderintegrated circuit U2. Integrated circuit U2 reproduces the codedaddress and data values in pulse-width modulated serial-bit format andapplies it through diode D1 to RF transmitter 358. RF transmitter 358includes a class B biased transistor Q2 in an L-C tuned RF oscillatortransmitter coupled to a loop antenna 406 for transmitting the commandsignal coded values (address bits coded by SW1 and data bits coded bySW2) produced by encoder U2.

Transmitter module 150 need only employ a small antenna such as a smallloop antenna and is not required to have optimum antenna coupling. In atypical embodiment, with a transmitter frequency of about 915 MHZ, atransmitter peak power output of less than or equal to one milliwattproduces a transmission range R of about 20-30 meters. Other frequenciesand power levels may also be employed. The low transmitter power isparticularly advantageous in that it allows the size of transmittermodule 150 to be made very small.

FIG. 26 is an electrical schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment ofreceiver module 362 illustrated and discussed above. Power is suppliedby a voltage source 410 which can be either a battery or a DC powersupply. Voltage from voltage source 410 is regulated by voltageregulator circuit U3 such as type LM78L05 to produce a regulated +5 voltpower supply for the functional blocks of receiver module 362. Inoperation, command signals transmitted from transmitter modules arereceived at loop antenna 412 and applied to RF receiver 363 including areceiver sub-circuit integrated circuit U8 such as type RX-2010available from RF Monolithics in Dallas, Tex. The identification signal,including the twelve bit coded value in serial-bit format is coupledfrom the output of receiver sub-circuit U8 to shift register decoder andaddress comparator 364/366 which are implemented in an integratedcircuit U5, such as a 212 series decoder type HT12D also available fromHoltek Microelectronics. Decoder U5 converts the coded value inserial-bit format to parallel-bit format and compares that receivedcoded value to the preselected stored coded fixed reference value inparallel bit format determined, for example, by the positions of thetwelve single pole switches in switch packages SW3, SW4 of addressstorage module 368.

Receive timer 372 is implemented by one-shot timer integrated circuit U6a such as type 74123N and D-flip flop U7 a such as type 74HC74D, both ofwhich are available from National Semiconductor Corporation of SantaClara, Calif. When comparator 366 detects a match between the receivedcoded value from transmitter module 150 and the coded value stored inaddress storage 368 it resets one-shot timer U6 a. If one-shot timer U6a is not again reset within the time determined by timing resistor R8and timing capacitor C9, U6 a then sets flip-flop U7 a and its Q outputbecomes low thereby applying a voltage input to controller 374signifying the end of a transmitted simple or complex spell. Controller374 then processes the received command signal or signals (e.g., storedin a stack register) and appropriately operates one or more associatedplay effects 376.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the switch positions ofthe twelve switches SW1, SW2 of transmitter module 150 correspond to theswitch positions of the corresponding twelve switches SW3, SW4 ofreceiver module 362. These preset values may be fixed or dynamic, asdiscussed above. The twelve-bits available for storing coded values maybe apportioned in a convenient way, for example, into an address portionand into a data portion. For example, the twelve-bit coded value can beapportioned into a ten-bit address portion (1024 possible combinations)and a two-bit data portion, which would accommodate up to four differenttransmitter command signals. If desired, the ten-bit address portion canbe further divided into various logical portions representing, forexample, the designated wand level (e.g., 1, 2, 3 or 4), specialacquired magic powers or skills, experience levels and the like. Thiscoded data would preferably be shared and coordinated between alltransmitter modules 150 and receiver modules 362 such that each wandeffectively would have its own unique powers and abilities asrepresented and identified by the coded address data. Thus, certainreceivers and associated play effects would not be actuated by certainwands unless the address coding of the transmitter module thereof iscoded with the appropriate matching data. In addition, the timingbetween received signals may be used to determine the appropriate playeffect or intensity of a play effect caused by operation of the wand100. Persons skilled in the art will recognize also that recoding oftransmitter modules is a convenient way to provide for advancement ofgame participants within an interactive gaming experience. For example,this can be accomplished manually (e.g., by flipping dip switchesSW1/SW2) or automatically/wirelessly (e.g., via RF programmable codelatching circuitry, not shown).

While the foregoing embodiments have been described in terms of a radiofrequency (RF) transmission between a transmitter module 150 andreceiver module 362, various alternative embodiments could also readilybe implemented such as, for example, replacing (or complimenting) RFtransmitter and receiver set (358, 363) with an appropriately selectedinfrared (IR) transmitter and receiver set or a laser or light system.The IR or laser system would have particular advantage where, forexample, it is desired to provide directional control of a transmittedcommand signal such as may be useful for directional spell casting,target practice, and wand-based shooting galleries.

Light-Activated Interactive Play System

For example, FIG. 27 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of alight-activated interactive play system 414 for use with embodiments ofthe invention utilizing laser technology. As shown in FIG. 27, theinteractive play system 414 comprises the magic wand 100 having a lightemitting module 416, a display device 418, an image preparation device420, a camera 422, and a control system 423.

The light emitting module 416 of the wand 100 advantageously emits adirectional signal, such as, for example, visible or infrared light. Inone embodiment, the light emitting module 416 comprises a semiconductorlaser. The signal output from the light emitting module 416 is emittedfrom an end opening of the wand 100 in a direction substantiallyparallel to the wand body. The signal may be generated from particularmotions of the wand 100, as described herein, or from other input fromthe user.

In one embodiment, the user operates the wand 100 such that the signalemitted from the light emitting module 416 is directed to the displaydevice 418. The display device 418 may comprises any device, apparatusor medium usable to intercept, reflect, and/or capture the signalemitted from the light emitting module 416 at an arbitrary position onthe display device. In one embodiment, the display device 418 comprisesa screen. In other embodiments, the display device 418 may comprise awall, a mist, a door, a transparent surface, or the like.

Furthermore, the illustrated interactive play system 414 comprises theimage preparation device 420, which operates to cause at least one imageto appear on the display device 418. In one embodiment, the imagepreparation device 420 projects a video image and/or a still image ontothe display device 418. For example, the image preparation device 420may comprise a video projector, an LCD projector, or the like. In otherembodiments, the image preparation device 420 may comprise multipledevices usable to project or to cause an image to appear on the displaydevice 418. A skilled artisan will recognize from the disclosure hereina wide variety of objects, characters, and/or images that may beprojected on the display device 418. For instance, the image preparationdevice 420 may project the image of mythical creatures, such as a dragonor a unicorn; magical objects, such as a flying carpet; or fantasycharacters, such as a wizard or an elf; combinations of the same or thelike.

In the illustrated embodiment, the display device 418 comprises atranslucent material and is arranged in front of the image preparationdevice 420. In such an arrangement, the user's view of the imagepreparation device 420 may be partially or entirely obstructed by thedisplay device 418. In other embodiments, the image preparation device420 may be located near, to the side of, or in front of the displaydevice 418 so long as an image may appear on the display device 418. Inyet other embodiments, the image preparation device 420 is electricallycoupled to the display device 418 through a wired or wirelesstransmission medium so as to cause images to appear on the displaydevice.

In an embodiment, the camera 422 is directed at the display device 418and advantageously captures, detects and/or records the arbitraryposition of the signal emitted from the light emitting module 416 as thesignal is intercepted by the display device 418. For example, the camera422 may comprise a high-speed still camera or a specialized video cameraused to take periodic or continuous photographs of a surface of displaydevice 418. In an embodiment of the invention in which the lightemitting module 416 outputs an infrared signal, the camera 422 isconfigured to record the infrared signal as it is intercepted by thedisplay device 418. The camera 422 advantageously outputs a signal basedon the captured image data to the control system 423, which capturedimage data includes information indicative of the position of the signaloutput by the light emitting module 416. In yet other embodiments,multiple cameras 422 are used in the interactive play system 414 tocapture, detect, or record the position of the light emitting modulesignal as it is intercepted by the display device 418. For example,multiple cameras 422 may be directed at different sections of thedisplay device 418 and/or may record or capture data from differentangles.

In one embodiment, the control system 423 advantageously communicateswith at least the image preparation device 420 and the camera 422. Forexample, the control system 423 may comprise a general purpose or aspecial purpose processor. However, an artisan will recognize that thecontrol system 423 may comprise an application-specific integratedcircuit (ASIC) or one or more modules configured to execute on one ormore processors.

The control system 423 receives and processes the image data receivedfrom the camera 422. In one embodiment, the control system 423 analyzesthe position and/or movement of the signal from the light emittingmodule 416 to determine modifications to be made to the subsequentimages to be produced by the image preparation device 420. For example,the control system 423 may determine from the image data that a user hascast a certain “spell” by motioning the wand 100, and therefore thelight emitting module 416, in a particular recognizable pattern. Thecontrol system 423 may make this determination by tracking themovement(s) of the light emitting module signal across the displaydevice 418, which movement is recorded in the image data output from thecamera 422.

For example, the control system 423 may initially command the imagepreparation device 420 to project an image of a brick wall onto thedisplay device 418. The user, who sees the image of the brick wall,points his or her wand 100 toward the brick wall such that the lightemitting module 416 outputs a signal, such as a red dot caused by alaser, onto the brick wall (and the display device 418). The user thenmotions the wand in a particular pattern, such as is described herein,to cause a desired motion of the red dot across the display device 418.The camera 422 records this movement in its image data, which is outputto the control system 423 for processing. If the control system 423determines from the image data that a certain spell has been cast, suchas a “move wall” spell, the control system 423 causes the imagepreparation device 420 to project an image of the wall disappearing ormoving out of the path or view of the user.

Although the interactive play system 414 is disclosed with reference toparticular embodiments, a skilled artisan will recognize from thedisclosure herein a wide variety of alternatives usable with the system414. For example, the display device 418 may comprise a large liquidcrystal display (LCD) screen coupled to an image preparation device 420comprising a digital video source, such as a memory. Furthermore,sensors, such as optical or infrared sensors, usable to detect theposition and/or movement of the light emitting module signal may be usedin place of, or in combination with, the camera 422.

In yet another embodiment, the control system 423 may be incommunication with a central system or database and/or various receiverscapable of causing one or more play effects. Thus, the control system423 may, in response to the signal emitted from the light emittingmodule 416, control or cause play effects other than modifications tothe image on the display device 418. For example, the control system 423may command a light to turn on or a book to open based on the signalcaptured by the camera 422.

FIG. 27A depicts yet another embodiment of an interactive system for usewith light-activation. As shown, a light-activated interactive playsystem 414′ includes similar components as the interactive play system414 of FIG. 27. In particular, the illustrated interactive play system414′ includes the camera 422 that advantageously captures, detectsand/or records the position of a signal emitted from the light emittingmodule 416 of the wand 100. In one embodiment, the camera 422 is locatedwithin a substantially enclosed area, such as, for example, a room, anddetects the signal emitted from the light emitting module 416 within theroom and/or directed at objects or effects within the room. In otherembodiments, multiple cameras 422 are located within a single room.

The camera 422 communicates with a control system 423′. Similar to thecontrol system 423 of FIG. 27, the control system 423′ receives andprocesses the image data received from the camera 422. For example, thecontrol system 423′ may analyze the position and/or movement of thesignal from the light emitting module 416 within a room. In oneembodiment, the control system 423′ advantageously communicates with oneor more effects, such as through wired or wireless communications, tocontrol or trigger the effects based on the image data from the camera422. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 27A, the interactive playsystem 414′ includes effects such as a chair 424, a bookshelf 425 havingat least one book 426, and a magic hat 427 with flowers 428.

An embodiment of a method for interactive game play will now bedescribed with reference to FIG. 27A. A user or game participant entersa room having the interactive system 414′. The user then maneuvers hisor her wand 100 such that the light emitting module 416 emits its signalin a certain direction and/or pattern, which signal is captured by thecamera 422. The control system 423′ then receives image data from thecamera 422 that includes information relating to the position and/ormovement of the signal within the room. Using this image data, thecontrol system 423′ triggers and/or controls at least one specialeffect.

For example, in one embodiment, if the user directs the signal from thelight emitting module 416 toward the chair 424, the control system 423′causes the chair to “levitate” or to move. If the user directs thesignal from the light emitting module 416 toward the bookshelf 425, thecontrol system 423′ may cause the book 426 to move or to open. If theuser directs the signal from the light emitting module 416 toward themagic hat 427, the control system 423′ may cause the flowers 428 toappear. Each of these described special effects may be controlled byassociated effects controllers, such as motors and/or processors, thatare in communication with the control system 423′. In addition, askilled artisan will recognize from the disclosure herein a wide varietyof special effects usable with the interactive system 414′. For example,the control system 423′ may trigger a cuckoo clock, a light to turn on,an inanimate object to speak, and so forth.

In yet other embodiments of the invention, such as illustrated in FIG.27B, the user performs a predetermined pattern or movement of the wand100 to initiate a “magic spell.” The movement of the wand 100 causes acorresponding movement of the signal emitted by the light emittingmodule 416, which signal is captured by the camera 422. The controlsystem 423′ then processes the image data received from the camera 422to determine which “spell” was cast and to cause or trigger the specialeffect(s) associated with the particular spell.

Competitive Games and Play Effects

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosureherein that the invention disclosed and described herein facilitates aplethora of new and unique gaming opportunities and interactive playexperiences heretofore unknown in the entertainment industry. In oneembodiment the invention provides a unique play experience that may becarried out within a compatible play facility, retail space and/or otherfacility utilizing a wand as disclosed and described herein. With a wandor other similarly enabled device, play participants can electronicallyand “magically” interact with their surrounding play environment(s) toproduce desired play effect, thereby fulfilling play participants'fantasies of practicing, performing and mastering “real” magic.

For example, FIG. 28 illustrates one preferred embodiment of awand-actuated play effect comprising a player piano 429 that is adaptedto be responsive to or controlled by an RF command signal transmitted bymagic wand toy 100. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat an RF receiver and associated controller, such as disclosed anddescribed herein, can easily be concealed within the piano 429 and/or inthe vicinity thereof such that it electronically interfaces with anddirects various selected control circuitry associated with the piano429. These may include, for example, circuitry for controlling: poweron/off, song selection, playing speed and volume, instrument selectionand special sound effects, sound sampling, combinations of the same orthe like. In operation, user 430 would wave the wand 100 in accordancewith one or more specific learned motions selected by the user toachieve a desired effect (e.g., piano on/off, play next song,speed-up/slow down, change piano sound, combinations of the same or thelike.). Most preferably, the wand 100 contains internal activationcircuitry, such as described herein, such that the wand may be activatedby the motion induced thereon by a user and so that actuation andcontrol of the special effect appears to be, and has the feeling to user430 of being, created by “real” magic.

FIG. 29 illustrates another preferred embodiment of a wand-actuated playeffect comprising magical or “enchanted” bookshelves 436. Thebookshelves contain multiple shelves of simulated or real books 438 thatare controlled by one or more concealed actuators. The actuators arepreferably positioned and arranged such that, when actuated, they causeone or more selected books to move, vibrate or levitate. Again, thoseskilled in the art will readily appreciate that an RF receiver and/orassociated controller, such as disclosed and described herein, caneasily be concealed within the bookshelves 436 and/or in the vicinitythereof. Movement and vibration of selected books can be provided, forexample, by various linear stepper-motor actuators associated with oneor more of the books 438. Each actuator may be controlled, for example,by a magnetic reed switch closure hidden behind the binder of each book.As a user 430 lightly touches the binder of each book with amagnetically-tipped wand 100 the associated reed switch (not shown) isclosed, connecting power to an associated vibrator/actuator. Then, asthe user 430 waves the wand 100 in one or more particular ways theselected book appears to vibrate or move as if it is being lifted orcontrolled by the magic wand 100. More spectacular effects may include,for example: (i) an effect that causes all or some of the books 438 tovibrate or move violently, randomly and/or in a rhythmic pattern (e.g.,as if dancing); (ii) an effect that causes one or more books to appearas if floating or levitating; (iii) an effect that causes all or some ofthe books to magically rearrange themselves; (iv) an effect that causesone or more selected books to talk or tell stories; and (v) an effectthat causes two or more books to appear to have a quarrel, argument ordebate (e.g., about an interesting historical fact or event). Some orall of these larger, more spectacular effects may be, and preferablyare, restricted to only users 430 who possess and have learned to use,for example, a Level-3 wand or above. Thus, for example, a goal-orientedor object-driven, interactive game may be provided wherein playparticipants compete with one another to learn and master certain gametasks in order to achieve successively more challenging goals orobjectives and to thereby earn additional powers, spells, abilities,points, special recognition and/or other rewards within the context ofan overall game experience. Preferably, in each case and regardless ofthe level of wand used, actuation and control of the special effectappears to be, and has the feeling to user 430 of being, created by“real” magic. Of course, many other possible fun and/or exciting specialeffects will be readily apparent and obvious from the disclosure hereinto persons skilled in the art.

FIG. 30 illustrates another preferred embodiment of a wand-actuated playeffect comprising a water fountain 440 having one or more associatedwater features 442 responsive to or controlled by an RF command signaltransmitted by one or more wands 100. An RF receiver and associatedcontroller, such as disclosed and described herein, can easily be placedwithin an associated fountain control system or panel, electronicallyinterfacing therewith to direct or control various selected fountainfeatures or functions. These may include, for example, on/off control ofwater flow, fountain lighting, special water features 442, combinationsof the same or the like. In operation, one or more users 430 would wavetheir wands 100 in accordance with one or more specific learned motionsselected by each user to achieve a desired effect (e.g., fountain on,next water feature, increase/decrease water feature, change lightingintensity/color, or the like). Most preferably, each wand 100 containsinternal activation circuitry, such as described herein, such that eachwand may be activated by the motion induced thereon by each user and sothat actuation and control of the special effect appears to be, and hasthe feeling to users 430 of being, created by “real” magic.

FIGS. 31A and 31B are time-lapsed schematic illustrations of a preferredembodiment of a play facility or play center constructed in accordancewith the present invention. The play facility may comprise a familyentertainment center, retail entertainment space, arcade, theme park,destination resort, restaurant, or the like, themed as a magic trainingcenter or any variety of other suitable themes as may be desired. Theplay facility preferably comprises multiple wand-actuated play effects400, such as talking animals 452, magic hats 454, crystal balls 456,enchanted books 458, and various shooting-gallery-style pop-up targeteffects 460, 462. These may be physical play objects configured withspecial effects, as illustrated, and/or they may be graphical orcomputer-generated images displayed, for example, on one or moreassociated computer monitors, TV monitors, DVD display monitors, orcomputer gaming consoles and the like, such as illustrated in FIG. 27B.Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosureherein that all of these effects and many other possible play effectsmay be actuated or controlled by wand 100 using one or more RFreceivers, RFID reader/writers and/or magnetic reed switches, asdisclosed and described above.

Some interactive play effects 400 may have simple or immediateconsequences, while others may have complex and/or delayed consequencesand/or possible interactions with other effects. Some play effects 400may local (short range) while other effects may be remote (long range).Each play participant 430, or sometimes a group of play participantsworking together, preferably must experiment with the various playeffects using their magic wands 100 in order to discover and learn howto create one or more desired effect(s). Once one play participantfigures it out, he or she can use the resulting play effect to surpriseand entertain other play participants. Yet other play participants willobserve the activity and will attempt to also figure it out in order toturn the tables on the next group. Repeated play on a particular playelement can increase the participants' skills in accurately using thewand 100 to produce desired effects or increasing the size or range ofsuch effects.

Most preferably, a live-action object-oriented or goal-oriented,interactive game is provided whereby play participants compete with oneanother (and/or against themselves) within a compatible play space tolearn and master certain play effects and game tasks in order to achievesuccessively more challenging goals or game objectives and to therebyearn additional powers, spells, abilities, points, special recognitionand/or other rewards within the context of an overall game experience.For example, play participants can compete with one another to see whichparticipant or group of participants can create bigger, longer, moreaccurate or more spectacular effects. Other goals and game objectivesmay be weaved into an entertaining story, such as a magical quest ortreasure hunt in which play participants immersed. The first task may beto build a magic wand. The next task may be to learn to use the magicwand to locate and open a secret treasure box filled with magicalsecrets (e.g., various spell formulas or magical powers). The ultimategoal may be to find and transform a particular frog (identified by,e.g., secret markings or other secret characteristics) into aprince/princess. Of course, many other gaming and theming possibilitiesand possible and desirable. Optionally, various “take home” play effectscan also be provided for the purpose of allowing play participants tocontinue the magical experience (and practice their skills) at home.

In one preferred embodiment, a user 430 would preferably point and/orwave the wand 100 in accordance with one or more specific learnedmotions or “spells” selected to achieve a desired effect on one or moreselected objects. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 31B, one spell maycause rabbit 452 to talk; another spell may cause hat 454 to magicallysprout flowers 464; another spell may cause book 458 to open with a frog466 jumping out; another spell may cause an image of a wizard 468 tomagically appear (with optional sound and lighting effects) withincrystal ball 456; another spell may cause candle 462 to magically lightitself with a pop-up flame 470. Most preferably, wand 100 containsinternal activation circuitry, such as described herein, such that thewand may be activated by the motion induced thereon by user 430 and sothat actuation and control of the special effect appears to be, and hasthe feeling to users 430 of being, created by “real” magic. To provideadded mystery and fun, certain effects 400 may be hidden such that theymust be discovered by play participants. If desired, various clues canbe provided such as, for example, part of a magical mystery game.

In each of the play effects described above, it is possible, and in manycases desirable, to provide additional control interlocks so thatmultiple input signals are required to actuate a given desired effect.For example, a proximity sensor may be provided associated with a giveneffect and electronically interlocked with the effect controller suchthat the effect cannot be operated if the proximity sensor is not alsoactuated. This could help reduce inadvertent or random actuation of thevarious effects. Similarly, voice activated controls and voicerecognition software could also be implemented and interlocked with theeffect controller so that, for example, a user 430 would need to say aparticular “magic” word or phrase while waving the magic wand 100 inorder to actuate a desired effect.

As mentioned, the proximity sensor may be used to provide a “hover”effect that is indicative of the initialization of a control interlock.For example, when a proximity sensor in the wand 100 is moved within aparticular distance of a receiver and/or effects controller, a “hover”effect occurs, such as, for example, the turning on of a light, themovement or vibration of an object, or any other perceptible signal(visual or audible) that notifies the user that a play effect may beinitiated. This “hover” effect may notify the user that a spell may becast so as to cause one or more effects.

Most preferably, a live-action object-oriented or goal-oriented,interactive game is provided whereby play participants compete with oneanother (and/or against themselves) within a compatible play space tolearn and master certain play effects and game tasks in order to achievesuccessively more challenging goals or game objectives and to therebyearn additional powers, spells, abilities, points, special recognitionand/or other rewards within the context of an overall game experience.For example, play participants can compete with one another to see whichparticipant or group of participants can create bigger, longer, moreaccurate or more spectacular effects. Other goals and game objectivesmay be weaved into an entertaining story, such as a magical quest ortreasure hunt in which play participants immersed. The first task may beto build a magic wand. The next task may be to learn to use the magicwand to locate an open a secret treasure box filled with magical secrets(e.g., various spell formulas or magical powers). The ultimate goal maybe to find and transform a particular frog (identified by, e.g., secretmarkings or other secret characteristics) into a prince/princess. Ofcourse, many other gaming and theming possibilities are possible anddesirable. Optionally, various “take home” play effects can also beprovided for the purpose of allowing play participants to continue themagical experience (and practice their skills) at home.

FIGS. 32A-D illustrate one preferred embodiment of a wand-actuated game500 having unique features and benefits in accordance with the presentinvention. The game 500 basically comprises a 3×7 grid of lightedsquares (including optional visual graphics and/or sound effects) thatare controlled by a game effects controller (not shown) and one or moreRF receivers (not shown). Those skilled in the art will readilyappreciate and understand from the disclosure herein how to set up andprogram a game controller and/or one or more RF receivers as disclosedand described herein so as to achieve the game functionality and variouseffects as will be described herein below. Preferably, one RF receiver(or IR receiver, RFID receiver, or the like) is provided for each playparticipant 430 so that command signals from each player can bedistinguished. For example, multiple RF receivers may be directionallyfocused or range-adjusted so as to receive RF command signals only froma selected corresponding player 430 a or 430 b.

Individual squares within a defined playing field 504 are preferably litor dimmed in a timed sequence in response to one or more predeterminedRF command signals (“spells”) received from one or more RF-enabled wands100. Preferably, special 3×1 arrays of squares 510 a, 510 b (labeled1-2-3) are provided at opposite ends of a playing field 504 and areadapted to respond to a signal imposed by, for example, the presence,proximity or weight of play participants 430 a, 430 b, as they stand oneach square. These special squares may be raised or otherwisedifferentiated, as desired, to indicate their special function withinthe game 500. Actuating individual squares within arrays 510 a and 510 b(e.g., by stepping or standing on them) allows play participants 430 a,430 b to select a corresponding column of squares in the playing field504 in which they may desire to launch an attack, counterattack ordefense using various learned spells or incantations. Spells may beactuated, for example, by waving wand 100 in one or more particularlearned motions selected to produce a desired play effect or spell. Aninfinite variety of such spells are possible as described above.

Preferably, when a spell is successfully cast by a player 430 a or 430b, the first square immediately in front of the player lights up or isotherwise controlled to produce a special effect indicating that a spellhas been cast. Other squares in the same column are then preferably litin a timed sequence or progression moving toward the opposing player(see, e.g., FIGS. 32B and 32C). Most preferably, the lighting effectsfor each square and/or other associated special effects are controlledor varied in a way to indicate the type of spell cast (e.g., a fire ballspell, ice spell, transforming spell, or the like). For example, variouscolors or patterns of lights may be used to indicate each spell.Alternatively, various graphic images and/or associated sound effectsmay be used to indicate each spell. These may be displayed, for example,on an overhead TV or associated computer monitor (not shown).

When an opposing player perceives that a spell has been cast and ismoving toward him, that player (e.g., player 430 b in FIG. 32B) attemptsto quickly identify the type of spell and to cast in the same column acounter-measure or “blocking spell” in an attempt to neutralize or blockthe advancing spell (see, e.g., FIG. 32C). The blocking spell may becast, for example, using the same particular wand motion or series ofwand motions used to cast the “forward spell”, except with a “block”command added. Thus, a blocking spell is launched toward the advancingspell, as indicated by a progression of lighted squares and/or othereffects controlled in a similar fashion as described above. If theblocking spell is effective (i.e., properly selected and executed), thenthe advancing spell is neutralized and the lighted column of squares iscleared (see, e.g., FIGS. 32C and 32D). If the blocking spell isineffective, then the advancing spell continues until it reaches the endof the column. Preferably, whenever a spell reaches the opposing side,points and/or other gaming advancements are awarded to the successfulplayer. These may vary, for example, depending upon the difficulty levelof the spell, the experience level of the opposing player, and the like.In one particularly preferred embodiment, successful players arerewarded (and unsuccessful players are punished) by allowing certainspells to “capture” or disable the opposing player's special square ineach corresponding column (see., e.g., FIG. 32D). Once all of a player'sspecial squares 510 a, 510 b have been captured or disabled the game isended.

Preferably, the speed of game play progresses and becomes faster andfaster as game play continues (e.g., spells move faster). In thismanner, the game 500 continually challenges game participants to improvetheir reaction speed and spell accuracy. The game also encouragesplayers to learn and master more difficult or complex spells, as thesewill be typically be harder and take longer for an opponent tosuccessfully block. Certain additional spells or advanced commands mayalso be provided for speeding up a spell or slowing down an advancingspell. Any infinite variety and possibility of other spells and gameplay nuances are possible and desirable in accordance with thefundamental aspects of the invention disclosed and described herein.

Those skilled in the art will also recognize from the disclosure hereinthat the game 500 is not limited to use with RF-enabled input devices,such as wands, cards, tokens and the like, as described herein.Alternatively, the game 500 may be readily adapted and used with a widevariety of other input devices, including, without limitation, RFIDtracking, magnetic actuators, joysticks, push-buttons, computer mouse orkeypad, foot pedals, motion sensors, virtual-reality gloves and thelike, proximity sensors, weight sensors, or the like. Similarly, thegame 500 is not limited to use with a magic theme, but may beimplemented in a wide variety of other suitable themes such as, withoutlimitation, war games, martial arts, “shoot-out” games, alien invasion,memory games, board games, educational games, trivia games, strategygames, and the like. It is also specifically contemplated that the game500 may be expanded or modified to accommodate 3 or more players. Forexample, a six-sided game field accommodating up to six differentplayers may easily be implemented using a similar playing field made upof hexagonal “squares”.

Master System

In addition, a skilled artisan will recognize from the disclosure hereinthat the foregoing competitive games and/or play effects may use acentral or master system to coordinate, control, and/or monitor thestatus of the games or effects in a particular area. For example, acentral database may be used to monitor the skill levels of all thosewho are participating in the competitive game in a particular location.In other embodiments, the central system may comprise a centralizedcomputer network that monitors the operation of each wand 100 (e.g., theplay effects caused by operation of the wand) within a particular area.In yet other embodiments, the wands 100 may automatically downloadinformation from the central system.

If a master system is utilized, preferably each wand 100 and/or RFIDcard 325 is configured to electronically send and receive information toand from various receivers or transceivers 300 distributed throughout aplay environment using a send receive radio frequency (“SRRF”)communication protocol. This communications protocol provides the basicfoundation for a complex, interactive entertainment system which createsa seemingly magic interactive play experience for play participants whopossess and learn to use the magic wand. In its most refinedembodiments, a user may electronically send and receive information toand from other wands and/or to and from a master control system locatedwithin and/or associated with any of a number of play environments, suchas a family entertainment facility, restaurant play structure,television/video/radio programs, computer software program, gameconsole, web site, etc. This newly created network of SRRF-compatibleplay and entertainment environments provides a complex, interactive playand entertainment system that creates a seamless magical interactiveplay experience that transcends conventional physical and temporalboundaries.

SRRF may generally be described as an RF-based communications technologyand protocol that allows pertinent information and messages to be sentand received to and from two or more SRRF compatible devices or systems.While the specific embodiments described herein are specific to RF-basedcommunication systems, those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat the broader interactive play concepts taught herein may be realizedusing any number of commercially available 2-way and/or 1-way mediumrange wireless communication devices and communication protocols suchas, without limitation, infrared-, digital-, analog, AM/FM-, laser-,visual-, audio-, and/or ultrasonic-based systems, as desired orexpedient.

The SRRF system can preferably send and receive signals (up to 40 feet)between tokens and fixed transceivers. The system is preferably able toassociate a token with a particular zone as defined by a tokenactivation area approximately 10-15 feet in diameter. Differenttransceiver and antenna configurations can be utilized depending on theSRRF requirements for each play station. The SRRF facility tokens andtransceivers are networked throughout a play environment. These devicescan be hidden in or integrated into the environmental infrastructure,such as walls, floors, ceilings and play station equipment. Therefore,the size and packaging of these transceivers is not particularlycritical.

In a preferred embodiment, an entire entertainment facility may beconfigured with SRRF technology to provide a master control system foran interactive entertainment play environment using SRRF-compatiblemagic wands and/or tracking devices. A typical entertainment facilityprovided with SRRF technology may allow 300-400 or more users tomore-or-less simultaneously send and receive electronic transmissions toand from the master control system using a magic wand or otherSRRF-compatible tracking device.

In particular, the SRRF system uses a software program and data-basethat can track the locations and activities of up to a hundred or moreusers. This information is then used to adjust the play experience foreach user based on “knowing” where the user/player has been, whatobjectives that player has accomplished and how many points or levelshave been reached. The system can then send messages to the userthroughout the play experience. For example, the system can allow ordeny access to a user into a new play area based on how many points orlevels have been reached by that user and/or based on what objectivesthat user has accomplished or helped accomplish. It can also indicate,via sending a message to the user the amount of points or specific playobjectives necessary to complete a “mission” or enter the next level ofplay. The master control system can also send messages to the user fromother users.

The system is preferably sophisticated enough that it can allow multipleusers to interact with each other adjusting the game instantly. Themaster system can also preferably interface with digital imaging and/orvideo capture so that the users activities can be visually tracked. Anyuser can locate another user either through the video capturing systemor by sending a message to another device. At the end of a visit, usersare informed of their activities and the system interfaces with printoutcapabilities. The SRRF system is preferably capable of sending andreceiving signals up to 100 feet. Transmitter devices can also be hiddenin walls or other structures in order to provide additionalinteractivity and excitement for play participants.

Suitable embodiments of the SRRF technology described above may beobtained from a number of suitable sources, such as AXCESS, Inc. and, inparticular, the AXCESS active RFID network system for asset and peopletacking applications. In another preferred embodiment the systemcomprises a network of transceivers 300 installed at specific pointsthroughout a facility. Players are outfitted or provided with a reusable“token”-a standard AXCESS personnel tag clipped to their clothing in theupper chest area. As each player enters a specific interactive play areaor “game zone” within the facility, the player's token receives a lowfrequency activation signal containing a zone identification number(ZID). The token then responds to this signal by transmitting both itsunique token identification number (TID) along with the ZID, thusidentifying and associating the player with a particular zone.

The token's transmitted signal is received by a transceiver 300 attachedto a data network built into the facility. Using the data network, thetransceiver forwards the TID/ZID data to a host computer system. Thehost system uses the SRRF information to log/track the guest's progressthrough the facility while interfacing with other interactive systemswithin the venue. For example, upon receipt of a TID/ZID messagereceived from Zone 1, the host system may trigger a digital camerafocused on that area, thus capturing a digital image of the player whichcan now be associated with both their TID and the ZID at a specifictime. In this manner the SRRF technology allows the master controlsystem to uniquely identify and track people as they interact withvarious games and activities in a semi-controlled play environment.Optionally, the system may be configured for two-way messaging to enablemore complex interactive gaming concepts.

In another embodiment, the SRRF technology can be used in the home. Forenabling magic at the home, a small SRRF module is preferablyincorporated into one or more portable toys or objects that may be assmall as a beeper. The SRRF module supports two-way communications witha small home transceiver, as well as with other SRRF objects. Forexample, a magic wand 100 can communicate with another magic wand 100.

The toy or object may also include the ability to produce light,vibration or other sound effects based on signals received through theSRRF module to complement the operation of the wand and/or the effectsachieved. In a more advanced implementation, the magical object may beconfigured such that it is able to display preprogrammed messages of upto 50 characters or more on a LCD screen when triggered by user action(e.g. button) or via signals received through the SRRF module. Thisdevice is also preferably capable of displaying short text messagestransmitted over the SRRF wireless link from another SRRF-compatibledevice. For example, FIG. 19G shows a toy wand 100 having an LCD screen113 for displaying short text messages.

Preferably, the SRRF transceiver 300 is capable of supportingmedium-to-long range (10-40 feet) two-way communications between SRRFobjects and a host system, such as a PC running SRRF-compatiblesoftware. This transceiver 300 has an integral antenna and interfaces tothe host computer through a dedicated communication port using industrystandard RS232 serial communications. It is also desirable that the SRRFtransmission method be flexible such that it can be embedded intelevision or radio signals, videotapes, DVDs, video games and otherprograms media, stripped out and re-transmitted using low costcomponents. The exact method for transposing these signals, as well asthe explicit interface between the home transceiver and common consumerelectronics (i.e. TVs, radios, VCRs, DVD players, A/V receivers, etc.)is not particularly important, so long as the basic functionality asdescribed above is achieved. The various components needed to assemblesuch an SRRF system suitable for use with the present invention arecommercially available and their assembly to achieve the desiredfunctionality described above can be readily determined by persons ofordinary skill in the art. If desired, each SRRF transceiver may alsoincorporate a global positioning (“GPS”) device to track the exactlocation of each play participant within one or more play environments.

Most desirably, a SRRF module can be provided in “chip” form to beincorporated with other electronics, or designed as a packaged modulesuitable for the consumer market. If desired, the antenna can beembedded in the module, or integrated into the toy and attached to themodule. Different modules and antennas may be required depending on thefunction, intelligence and interfaces required for different devices. Aconsumer grade rechargeable or user replaceable battery may also be usedto power both the SRRF module and associated toy electronics.

Interactive Game Play

Embodiments of the present invention may be carried out using a widevariety of suitable game play environments, storylines and characters,as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. The followingspecific game play examples are provided for purposes of illustrationand for better understanding of the invention and should not be taken aslimiting the invention in any way:

Example 1

An overall interactive gaming experience and entertainment system isprovided (called the “Magic” experience), which tells a fantastic storythat engages children and families in a never-ending adventure based ona mysterious treasure box filled with magical objects. Through a numberof entertainment venues such as entertainment facilities, computergames, television, publications, web sites, and the like, children learnabout and/or are trained to use these magical objects to become powerful“wizards” within one or more defined “Magic” play environments. The playenvironments may be physically represented, such as via an actualexisting play structure or family entertainment center, and/or it may bevisually/aurally represented via computer animation, television radioand/or other entertainment venue or source.

The magical objects use the SRRF communications system allowing formessages and information to be received and sent to and from any otherobject or system. Optionally, these may be programmed and linked to themaster SRRF system. Most preferably, the “magic wand” 100 is configuredto receive messages from any computer software, game console, web site,and entertainment facility, television program that carries the SRRFsystem. In addition, the magic wand can also preferably send messages toany SRRF compatible system thus allowing for the “wand” to be trackedand used within each play environment where the wand is presented. Thetoy or wand 100 also preferably enables the user to interact with eithera Master system located within a Magic entertainment facility and/or ahome-based system using common consumer electronic devices such as apersonal computer, VCR or video game system.

The master control system for a Magic entertainment facility generallycomprises: (1) a “token” (gag, toy, wand 100 or other device) carried bythe user 430, (2) a plurality of receivers or transceivers 300 installedthroughout the facility, (3) a standard LAN communications system(optional), and (4) a master computer system interfaced to thetransceiver network (optional). If a Master computer system is used,preferably the software program running on the Master computer iscapable of tracking the total experience for hundreds of userssubstantially in real time. The information is used to adjust the playfor each user based on knowing the age of the user, where the user hasplayed or is playing, points accumulated, levels reached and specificobjectives accomplished. Based on real-time information obtained fromthe network, the system can also send messages to the user as theyinteract throughout the Magic experience.

The Master system can quickly authorize user access to a new playstation area or “zone” based on points or levels reached. It can alsopreferably indicate, via sending a message to the user, the pointsneeded or play activities necessary to complete a “mission.” The Mastersystem can also send messages to the user from other users. The systemis preferably sophisticated enough to allow multiple users to interactwith each other while enjoying the game in real-time.

Optionally, the Master system can interface with digital imaging andvideo capture so that the users' activities can be visually tracked. Anyuser can then locate another user either through the video capturingsystem or by sending a message to another device. At the end of a visit,users are informed of their activities and other attributes related tothe Magic experience via display or printout.

For relatively simple interactive games, the Master system may beomitted in order to save costs. In that case, any game-relatedinformation required to be shared with other receivers or transceiversmay be communicated via an RS-232 hub network, Ethernet, or wirelessnetwork, or such information may be stored on the wand itself and/or anassociated RFID card or badge carried by the play participant. Forretrofit applications, it is strongly preferred to provide substantiallyall stand-alone receivers or transceivers that do not communicate to amaster system or network. This is to avoid the expense of re-wiringexisting infrastructure. For these applications, any informationrequired to be shared by the game system is preferably stored on thewand or other RFID device(s) carried by the play participants.Alternatively, if a more complex game experience is demanded, any numberof commercially available wireless networks may be provided withoutrequiring rewiring of existing infrastructure.

Example 2

A computer adventure game is provided in which one or more playparticipants assume the role of an imaginary character “Pajama Sam” fromthe popular series of computer games published by HumongousEntertainment, Inc. of Woodinville, Wash. A Pajama Sam adventurecharacter card 700, such as illustrated in FIGS. 34A, 34B, is providedto each play participant. The card may be packaged and sold togetherwith the game software, and/or it may be sold separately, as convenienceand market demands dictate.

The card 700 may be constructed substantially the same as the cards 325,600 illustrated and described above in connection with FIGS. 20C-D and33, except with different character illustrations and/or graphics. Forexample, each card 700 may include a different character from the PajamaSam computer game series representing a role-play character desired tobe imagined by a play participant. The obverse side (FIG. 34B) includesan RFID tag 720, such as illustrated and described above in connectionwith FIG. 20D. Preferably, the tag 720 is covered with an adhesive paperlabel 725. Alternatively, the tag 720 may be molded directly into aplastic sheet substrate from which the card 700 is then formed.Alternatively, a magnetic “swipe” strip and/or other well-knowninformation storage means may be used with efficacy, so long as it isrelatively compact, durable and inexpensive.

The particular size, shape and theme of the card 700 is relativelyunimportant. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the card 700 isshaped and themed similar to a baseball trading card so that they may becollected and stored conveniently in any baseball card album or thelike. If desired, a hole or eyelet (not shown) may be provided at thetop of the card 700 so as to facilitate wearing the card 700 as apendant on a necklace or as key-chain trinket. Of course, smaller,pocket-sized cards and/or other similar RFID or magnetic transponderdevices may also be used where convenience and market demand dictates.Such alternative suitable transponder devices are commerciallyavailable, such as from Texas Instruments, Inc. (http://www.tiris.com,e.g., Prod. Nos. RI-TRP-W9WK, RI-TRP-R9QL, RI-TRP-WFOB).

A specially configured computer, video game, home game console,hand-held gaming device or similar gaming device is provided with areader, and more preferably a reader/writer such as described above,that is able to communicate with the tag 720 or other informationstorage means associated with the card 700. As each play participantplays his or her favorite Pajama Sam game the Pajama Sam characterrepresented by the card 700 gains (or loses) certain attributes, such asspeed, dexterity, and/or the possession of certain tools or objectsassociated with the game play. All of this information is preferablystored on the card 700 so that the character attributes may be easilyand conveniently transported to other similarly-equipped computer games,video games, home game consoles, hand-held game units, play facilities,and the like. In this manner, an imaginary role-play character iscreated and stored on a card that is able to seamlessly transcend fromone play medium to the next.

For example, in the course of playing a typical Pajama Sam game, playersmust “find” certain objects or tools that they will use to solve certainpuzzles or tasks presented by the game. Players “pick up” these objectsor tools by clicking their mouse on the desired object. The computergame software then keeps a record of which objects have been collectedand displays those objects on the computer screen when requested by theplayer. This is illustrated by FIG. 35A, which is a screen shot from thecomputer game, “Pajama Sam, in No Need to Hide When It's Dark Outside,”published by Humongous Entertainment., Inc. © 1996. The game begins inPajama Sam's bedroom, and the player is asked to find and click oncertain objects 810 that Pajama Sam needs to begin his adventure—namelyhis flashlight, PajamaMan lunch box and PajamaMan mask. As these objectsare located and collected, they are displayed on the bottom of thecomputer screen, as illustrated in FIG. 35A.

FIG. 35B is a screen shot from the same game where the player faces hisfirst challenge or puzzle to solve. He or she must somehow make PajamaSam operate the elevator 815 to take Pajama Sam up into the tree house820 where his archenemy “Darkness” resides. To solve the puzzle theplayer explores the scene with his mouse and clicks on objects thatmight be useful to solve the puzzle. Eventually, the player willdiscover a pile of rocks 825 which Pajama Sam picks up and tosses intothe basket 830 to operate the elevator. In the next scene (FIG. 35E)Pajama Sam is inside the tree house and the player must decide which ofthree possible paths to take representing doors 840, 845 and 850.Doorway 850 leads to the scene illustrated in FIG. 35D in which PajamaSam (and the player) is challenged to a trivia game by a pair of talkingdoors. The player chooses from different categories of questions andattempts to choose correct answers from a multiple choice list providedby the game (see FIG. 35E). Ultimately, the player is challenged with aquestion specific to the game (see FIG. 35F) and which requires theplayer to have visited a particular location within the game where theinformation is contained. If the player has not completed that portionof the computer game, he or she cannot answer the question posed andPajama Sam cannot advance in the adventure game (see FIG. 35G).

If the player were to quit the game at this point, he or she could savethe game on the host computer and return to the same computer later tocomplete the adventure. But the Pajama Sam character itself, itsattributes, experiences and accomplishments are not portable and cannotpresently be transferred from one game or gaming environment to another.However, the Pajama Sam adventure card 700 in accordance with thepresent invention enables a play participant to continue the adventuresomewhere else (e.g. at a friend's house, or a video arcade facility)without having to restart the game and repeat the steps that the playerhas already accomplished. With the Pajama Sam adventure card 700,relevant details of the game experience and the Pajama Sam character arestored on the card 700 so that the player can take the card to anothercomputer, game console, hand-held game device or a designated Pajama Samplay facility, to continue the adventure in a new and exciting playenvironment.

For example, the Pajama Sam play facility could be configured as aphysical play space having theming and game play that parallels that ofone or more of the Pajama Same computer adventure games. Now ourcomputer game player who has a Pajama Sam adventure card 700 can visitthis play facility and the facility would be able to read theinformation on the card and determine that this particular player hasalready completed the first puzzle in the first Pajama Sam computeradventure game. If the player desires, he or she will be allowed toadvance automatically in the game play within the Pajama Sam playfacility so that the player can work on a new puzzle. If the playersuccessfully solves a new puzzle at the play facility, this informationwill be recorded on the Pajama Sam adventure card 700. The next time heor she plays the computer game the card can be automatically read andthe computer experience can be modified or updated in accordance withthe new information recorded on the card. In this manner, the characterrole-play experience becomes portable, personal and long-term. This, inturn, facilitates the development of even more sophisticated and complexrole-play characters and longer, more enjoyable role play experiences asplayers are able to continue playing with and developing the samerole-play character(s) over long periods of time and in different andvaried play environments.

Similarly, various other video games, home game consoles, and/orhand-held game units can be and preferably are configured to communicatewith the Pajama Sam adventure card 700 in a similar manner as describedabove and/or using other well-known information storage andcommunication techniques. In this manner, a play participant can use thePajama Sam adventure card 700 and the role play character he or she hasdeveloped with specific associated attributes in a favorite video actiongame, role-play computer game, internet adventure game or the like.

Example 3

A trading card game is provided wherein a plurality of cards depictingvarious real or imaginary persons, characters and/or objects areprovided and wherein each card has recorded or stored thereon in anelectronically readable format certain selected information pertainingto the particular person, character or object, such as performancestatistics, traits/powers, or special abilities. The information ispreferably stored on an RFID tracking tag associated with each card andwhich can be read electronically and wirelessly over a predeterminedrange preferably greater than about 1 cm when placed in the proximity ofa suitably configured RF reader. Optionally, the RFID tag may beread/write capable such that it the information stored thereon may bechanged or updated in any manner desired. Alternatively, a magneticstrip, bar code or similar information storage means may be used tostore relevant information on the card.

FIGS. 36A and 36B depict one preferred embodiment of a trading card 900having features and advantages in accordance with the present invention.The particular trading card illustrated in FIG. 36A is provided in thetheme of the popular Pokemon characters and, in particular, thecharacter Pikachu. FIGS. 36C and 36D illustrate several other possiblePokemon themed trading cards which may be provided in accordance withthe present invention. Each card preferably comprises a paper, cardboardor plastic substrate having a front side 905 and a back side 910. Thefront 905 of the card 900 may be imprinted with graphics, photos, or anyother information as desired. In the particular embodiment illustrated,the front 905 contains an image of the Pikachu character 925 in keepingwith the Pokemon theme. In addition, the front 905 of the card 900 mayinclude any number of other designs or information 930 pertinent to itsapplication. For example, the character's type, size and evolution maybe indicated, along with any special powers or traits the character maypossess.

The obverse side 910 of the card 900 preferably contains the cardelectronics comprising a radio frequency tag 920 pre-programmed with thepertinent information for the particular person, character or objectportrayed on the front of the card. The tag 920 generally comprises aspiral wound antenna 950, a radio frequency transmitter chip 960 andvarious electrical leads and terminals 970 connecting the chip 960 tothe antenna. If desired, the tag 920 may be covered with an adhesivepaper label (not shown) or, alternatively, the tag may be moldeddirectly into a plastic sheet substrate from which the card 900 isformed.

Preferably, the tag 920 is passive (requires no batteries) so that it isinexpensive to purchase and maintain. Such tags and various associatedreaders and other accessories are commercially available in a widevariety of configurations, sizes and read ranges. RFID tags having aread range of between about 10 cm to about 100 cm are particularlypreferred, although shorter or longer read ranges may also beacceptable. The particular tag illustrated is the 13.56 mHz tag soldunder the brand name TaggIt™ available from Texas Instruments, Inc.(http://www.tiris.com, Product No. RI-103-11OA). The tag 920 has auseful read/write range of about 25 cm and contains 256-bits of on-boardmemory arranged in 8×32-bit blocks which may be programmed (written) andread by a suitably configured read/write device. If a longer read/writerange and/or more memory is desired, optional battery-powered tags maybe used instead, such as available from ACXESS, Inc. and/or variousother vendors known to those skilled in the art.

Cards 900 may be collected or traded and/or they may be used to playvarious games, such as a Pokemon arena competition using an electronicinterface capable of reading the card information. Such games may becarried out using a specially configured gaming device or,alternatively, using a conventional computer gaming platform, home gameconsole, arcade game console, hand-held game device, internet gamingdevice or other gaming device that has been modified to include an RFreader or magnetic “swipe” reader device as illustrated and describedabove. Advantageously, play participants can use the trading cards 900to transport information pertinent to a particular depicted person,character or object to a favorite computer action game, adventure game,interactive play structure or the like. For example, a suitablyconfigured video game console and video game may be provided which readsthe card information and recreates the appearance and/or traits ofparticular depicted person, character of object within the game. Ifdesired, the game console may further be configured to write informationto the card in order to change or update certain characteristics ortraits of the character, person or object depicted by the card 900 inaccordance with a predetermined game play progression.

Of course, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that theunderlying concept of an RIFD trading card 900 and card game is notlimited to cards depicting fantasy characters or objects, but may beimplemented in a wide variety of alternative embodiments, includingsporting cards, baseball, football and hockey cards, movie charactercards, dinosaur cards, educational cards and the like. If desired, anynumber of other suitable collectible/tradable tokens or trinkets mayalso be provided with a similar RFID tag device in accordance with theteachings of the present invention as dictated by consumer tastes andmarket demand.

Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certainpreferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond thespecifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodimentsand/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalentsthereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present inventionherein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosedembodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fairreading of the claims that follow.

1. A handheld gaming device for amusing or entertaining a gameparticipant playing a game in which a computer-generated playenvironment is represented through one or more computer-animated visual,aural or tactile effects, said handheld gaming device comprising: a bodyhaving an internal cavity sized and configured to receive one or morebatteries and associated circuitry configured to power and operate ahandheld gaming device; non-volatile memory storing at least one uniqueidentifier for uniquely identifying said handheld gaming device; a firstradio frequency (RF) transceiver configured and adapted to providemedium-range two-way wireless communication with a firstwireless-compatible device, said first RF transceiver having a wirelesscommunication range of at least 10 feet; a second RF transceiverconfigured and adapted to provide short-range two-way wirelesscommunication with a second wireless-compatible device, said second RFtransceiver having a wireless communication range of at least 1 cm,wherein said short-range two-way communication is facilitated at leastin part through inductive coupling between said second RF transceiverand said second wireless-compatible device; and motion- orposition-sensitive circuitry configured and adapted to enable saidhandheld gaming device to be operated at least in part by moving theentire body of said handheld gaming device in one or more particularmotions to activate or control one or more computer-animated visual,aural or tactile effects.
 2. The handheld gaming device of claim 1,wherein said first wireless-compatible device comprises awireless-compatible gaming platform configured and adapted to produce acomputer-generated play environment and wherein said handheld gamingdevice is configured to operate with said wireless-compatible gamingplatform as a wireless motion-sensitive input controller for enabling agame participant to selectively activate or control said one or morecomputer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects in accordance with agame.
 3. The handheld gaming device of claim 2, wherein saidwireless-compatible gaming platform comprises a wireless-compatiblevideo game console, home game console, handheld game unit, personalcomputer, or live-action play facility.
 4. The handheld gaming device ofclaim 1, wherein said second RF transceiver comprises a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) tag and wherein said second wireless-compatibledevice comprises an RFID reader device configured and adapted toexchange one or more wireless communications with said RFID tag whensaid handheld gaming device and said RFID reader device are within saidcommunication range of one another and wherein at least one of saidwireless communications includes communication of said at least oneunique identifier.
 5. The handheld gaming device of claim 4, whereinsaid second RF transceiver comprises a passive RFID tag and wherein saidRFID reader device is further configured and adapted to wirelessly powersaid passive RFID tag through inductive coupling.
 6. The handheld gamingdevice of claim 1, wherein said second wireless-compatible devicecomprises an RFID tag and wherein said second RF transceiver comprisesan RFID reader device configured and adapted to exchange one or morewireless communications with said RFID tag when said handheld gamingdevice and said RFID tag are provided within said communication range ofone another and wherein at least one of said wireless communicationsincludes communication of said at least one unique identifier.
 7. Thehandheld gaming device of claim 6, wherein said secondwireless-compatible device comprises a passive RFID tag and wherein saidRFID reader device is further configured and adapted to wirelessly powersaid passive RFID tag through inductive coupling.
 8. The handheld gamingdevice of claim 7, wherein said second wireless-compatible devicecomprises a physical game card or token depicting or representing aperson, character or object relevant to a game and wherein said physicalgame card or token includes an associated RFID tag configured toelectronically identify or describe said person, character or objectwhen said associated RFID tag is wirelessly powered and read by saidRFID reader device.
 9. The handheld gaming device of claim 1, whereinsaid second RF transceiver and said second wireless-compatible deviceare configured and adapted to wirelessly communicate with one another ata carrier wave frequency of 13.56 MHz.
 10. The handheld gaming device ofclaim 1, wherein said second RF transceiver has said wirelesscommunication range of at least 10 cm and wherein communication isfacilitated through inductive coupling between said second RFtransceiver and said second wireless-compatible device.
 11. The handheldgaming device of claim 1, further comprising a display screen configuredto display game-relevant information.
 12. The handheld gaming device ofclaim 1, further comprising a game effects generator configured toproduce at least one sound, vibration or lighting effect in accordancewith a game.
 13. The handheld gaming device of claim 1, wherein saidhandheld gaming device comprises a portable handheld game unit.
 14. Thehandheld gaming device of claim 1, wherein said motion- orposition-sensitive circuitry is configured and adapted to sense anddistinguish said one or more particular motions of said handheld gamingdevice.
 15. The handheld gaming device of claim 1, further comprising aglobal positioning (GPS) device configured and adapted to indicate aglobal location of said handheld wireless gaming device.
 16. Thehandheld gaming device of claim 1, further comprising at least onebutton configured and adapted to activate or control at least oneassociated function of said handheld gaming device.
 17. The handheldgaming device of claim 1, further comprising a sound or voicerecognition system configured or adapted to enable said handheld gamingdevice to respond to one or more sound or voice commands.
 18. Thehandheld gaming device of claim 1, in combination with awireless-compatible gaming platform comprising a home game consoleconfigured and adapted to produce said one or more computer-animatedvisual, aural or tactile effects in accordance with a game.
 19. Thehandheld gaming device of claim 18, in combination with game softwareadapted to be executed by said home game console to carry out said game,said game software including program instructions for causing said homegame console to: i) conduct said game in which said virtual playenvironment is visually and aurally represented through one or morecomputer animations, ii) track a game progress or performance of one ormore game participants playing said game, and iii) adjust a playexperience for said one or more game participants based at least in parton said tracked game progress or performance.
 20. The handheld gamingdevice of claim 1, in combination with an image capture systemconfigured to capture one or more digital images of a game participantplaying said game.
 21. A gaming device for amusing or entertaining agame participant playing a game wherein at least a first portion of saidgame is virtually represented through one or more computer-animatedvisual, aural or tactile effects and wherein at least a second portionof said game is physically represented through one or more radiofrequency identification (RFID)-tagged items, said gaming devicecomprising: a first radio frequency (RF) transceiver configured andadapted to provide medium-range two-way wireless communication with afirst wireless-compatible device comprising a wireless-compatible videogame console, home game console, handheld game unit, personal computer,or live-action gaming element, said first RF transceiver having acommunication range of at least 10 feet; a second RF transceiverconfigured and adapted to provide short-range two-way wirelesscommunication with a second wireless-compatible device comprising atleast one or more RFID-tagged items depicting or representing a person,character or object relevant to a game, said second RF transceiverhaving a wireless communication range of at least 1 cm; and a wirelesspower source configured and adapted to generate an electromagnetic fieldto wirelessly power said second wireless-compatible device by inductivecoupling when said second wireless-compatible device is provided withinsaid wireless communication range of said second RF transceiver; wherebya game participant plays a game at least in part by selectivelyproviding said one or more RFID-tagged items within wirelesscommunication range of said second RF transceiver to wirelessly powerthe associated RFID tag and thereby cause selected information stored onsaid associated RFID tag to be wirelessly communicated to said second RFtransceiver, and wherein said selected information can be furthercommunicated by said first RF transceiver to said firstwireless-compatible device and used therein to activate, control ormodify one or more computer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects inaccordance with said game.
 22. The gaming device of claim 21, whereinsaid gaming device comprises a handheld body and wherein said gamingdevice is further sized and configured to be held in the air andoperated by said game participant at least in part by moving the entiresaid body of said gaming device in one or more particular motions toactivate or control said one or more computer-animated visual, aural ortactile effects in accordance with said game.
 23. The gaming device ofclaim 22, wherein said gaming device further comprises motion- orposition-sensitive circuitry configured and adapted to sense anddistinguish said one or more particular motions.
 24. The gaming deviceof claim 21, wherein said first wireless-compatible device is configuredand adapted to produce a computer-generated play environmentrepresenting a first portion of said game through one or morecomputer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects and wherein saidgaming device is configured to operate with said firstwireless-compatible device as an input controller for enabling said gameparticipant to selectively activate or control said one or morecomputer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects in accordance withsaid game.
 25. The gaming device of claim 24, wherein said gaming devicefurther comprises a display screen and a game effects generatorconfigured to produce at least one sound, vibration or lighting effectin accordance with said game.
 26. The gaming device of claim 21, whereinsaid gaming device comprises a portable handheld game unit configuredand adapted to produce a computer-generated play environmentrepresenting a first portion of said game and wherein said gameparticipant plays said game at least in part by selectively placing saidone or more RFID-tagged items within said communication range of saidsecond RF transceiver to wirelessly power said associated RFID tag andthereby cause selected information stored on said associated RFID tag tobe automatically and wirelessly communicated to said second RFtransceiver, and wherein said gaming device is further configured andadapted to use said selected information to: i) produce said one or morecomputer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects having a particularappearance, characteristics or traits of said corresponding depicted orrepresented person, character or object, or ii) adjust a game experiencefor said game participant.
 27. The gaming device of claim 21, whereineach of said one or more RFID-tagged items includes an associatedpassive RFID tag having a unique identifier stored therein forelectronically identifying said RFID-tagged item and/or said person,character or object depicted or represented by said RFID-tagged item,and wherein said second RF transceiver is further configured and adaptedto automatically exchange one or more wireless communications with saidassociated passive RFID tag when said gaming device and said associatedpassive RFID tag are within said communication range of one another andwherein at least one of said exchanged wireless communications includescommunication of said stored unique identifier.
 28. The gaming device ofclaim 27, wherein at least one of said one or more RFID-tagged itemscomprises a physical game card or token depicting or representing saidperson, character or object relevant to said game and wherein saidassociated passive RFID tag further comprises non-volatile programmablememory configured and adapted to store game-relevant informationassociated with said person, character or object, said game-relevantinformation comprising character attributes, characteristics, appearanceor traits selected or developed by said game participant while playingsaid game.
 29. The gaming device of claim 21, wherein said second RFtransceiver has said wireless communication range of at least 10 cm andwherein said communication is conducted at least in part throughinductive coupling between said second RF transceiver and said secondwireless-compatible device.
 30. The gaming device of claim 21, furthercomprising a display screen configured to display game-relevantinformation.
 31. The gaming device of claim 21, further comprising soundor voice recognition circuitry configured or adapted to enable saidgaming device to respond to one or more sound or voice commands.
 32. Thegaming device of claim 21, in combination with a wireless-compatiblegaming platform comprising a home game console or handheld game unitconfigured and adapted to produce said one or more computer-animatedvisual, aural or tactile effects in accordance with said game, andwherein said gaming device is configured to operate with saidwireless-compatible gaming platform as a wireless input device forenabling said game participant to selectively activate or control saidone or more computer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects inaccordance with said game.
 33. The combination of claim 32, in furthercombination with game software adapted to be executed by saidwireless-compatible gaming platform to carry out said game, said gamesoftware including program instructions for causing saidwireless-compatible gaming platform to: i) conduct an interactive gamein which a virtual play environment is visually and aurally representedthrough one or more computer animations, ii) track a game progress orperformance of one or more game participants playing said interactivegame, and iii) adjust a play experience for said one or more gameparticipants based at least in part on said tracked game progress orperformance.
 34. The gaming device of claim 21, in combination with saidone or more RFID-tagged items depicting or representing said person,character or object relevant to said game, each said one or moreRFID-tagged items comprising said associated RFID tag or transponderhaving a unique identifier stored therein for wirelessly andelectronically identifying said RFID-tagged item and/or said person,character or object depicted or represented by said RFID-tagged item.35. The combination of claim 34, wherein at least one of said one ormore RFID-tagged items comprises a game card or token depicting orrepresenting said person, character or object relevant to said game, andwherein said RFID tag further comprises non-volatile memory configuredand adapted to store game-relevant information associated with saidperson, character or object, said game-relevant information comprisingcharacter attributes, characteristics, appearance or traits selected ordeveloped by said game participant while playing said game.
 36. A gamingsystem for amusing or entertaining one or more game participants playinga game wherein at least a portion of said game is virtually representedthrough one or more computer-animated visual, aural or tactile effectsand wherein at least a portion of said game is physically representedthrough one or more wireless-compatible gaming items, said gaming systemcomprising: a wireless-compatible gaming platform comprising a videogame console, home game console, handheld game unit, personal computer,or live-action play facility, said gaming platform configured andadapted to produce a computer-generated play environment comprising oneor more computer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects in accordancewith a game; a wireless-compatible game controller configured andadapted to be held and moved freely in the air and to provide a wirelesscontrol signal to said gaming platform based at least in part on one ormore sensed motions of said game controller, said game controllerfurther comprising: a body having an internal cavity sized andconfigured to receive one or more batteries and associated circuitryconfigured to power and operate said game controller; non-volatileprogrammable memory storing at least one unique identifier for uniquelyidentifying said game controller within said game; a first radiofrequency (RF) transceiver configured and adapted to provide two-waywireless communication with said gaming platform, said first RFtransceiver having a wireless communication range of at least 10 feet;and motion- or position-sensitive circuitry configured and adapted toenable said game controller to be operated at least in part by movingthe entire body of said game controller in said one or more motions tothereby activate or control one or more computer-animated visual, auralor tactile effects; a second RF transceiver configured and adapted toprovide two-way wireless communication with one or morewireless-compatible gaming items, said second RF transceiver having awireless communication range of at least 1 cm and wherein said two-waycommunication is facilitated at least in part through inductive couplingbetween said second RF transceiver and said one or more gaming items andhaving electronically stored therein selected information relevant to agame; and a wireless power source configured and adapted to generate anelectromagnetic field to wirelessly power said one or more gaming itemsby inductive coupling when said one or more gaming items are providedwithin said wireless communication range of said second RF transceiver;whereby one or more game participants plays said game at least in partby moving said game controller in said one or more motions and at leastin part by selectively placing said one or more gaming items within saidwireless communication range of said second RF transceiver to wirelesslypower said one or more gaming items and thereby cause said selectedinformation stored on said gaming item to be wirelessly communicated tosaid gaming system.
 37. The gaming system of claim 36, wherein said oneor more gaming items comprise one or more physical game cards or tokensdepicting or representing persons, characters or objects relevant tosaid game, and wherein each of said one or more physical game cards ortokens has an associated radio frequency identification (RFID) taghaving stored therein said selected information configured to wirelesslyand electronically identify or describe said corresponding person,character or object.
 38. The gaming system of claim 36, wherein saidsecond RF transceiver and said wireless power source are configured as asingle wireless reader/writer device configured to wirelessly power saidone or more gaming items and to read and write said information storedtherein.
 39. The gaming system of claim 36, wherein said game controllerand said second RF transceiver are configured as a single gamecontroller having both medium-range and short-range wireless RFcommunication capabilities.
 40. The gaming system of claim 36, whereinsaid game controller, said second RF transceiver and said wireless powersource are configured as a single game controller having bothmedium-range and short-range wireless RF communication capabilities withthe further capability to wirelessly power said one or morewireless-compatible devices through inductive coupling.
 41. The gamingsystem of claim 36, wherein said gaming platform, said game controller,said second RF transceiver and said wireless power source are allconfigured as a single handheld gaming device configured to produce saidcomputer-generated play environment comprising said one or morecomputer-animated visual, aural or tactile effects in accordance withsaid game and having both medium-range and short-range wireless RFcommunication capabilities and the capability to wirelessly power saidone or more wireless-compatible devices through inductive coupling. 42.The gaming system of claim 36, wherein said motion- orposition-sensitive circuitry is configured and adapted to sense anddistinguish said one or more motions of said game controller.
 43. Thegaming system of claim 36, wherein said game controller furthercomprises a display screen configured and adapted to displaygame-relevant information.
 44. The gaming system of claim 36, whereinsaid game controller further comprises a game effects generatorconfigured to produce at least one sound, vibration or lighting effectin accordance with said game.
 45. The gaming system of claim 36, whereinsaid game controller comprises a first motion-sensitive user inputdevice and a second motion-sensitive user input device and wherein atleast said second input device is sized and configured to be held andmoved freely in the air and to be operated by a game participant using asingle hand to play said game at least in part by moving said secondinput device with said one or more motions and wherein said second inputdevice is further configured and adapted to wirelessly communicate withsaid first input device.
 46. The gaming system of claim 36, wherein eachof said one or more gaming items includes an associated passive RFID taghaving a unique identifier stored therein for electronically identifyingsaid gaming item and/or a person, character or object depicted orrepresented by said gaming item, and wherein said second RF transceiveris further configured and adapted to automatically exchange one or morewireless communications with said associated passive RFID tag when saidsecond RF transceiver and said associated passive RFID tag are withinsaid communication range of one another and wherein at least one of saidexchanged wireless communications includes communication of said storedunique identifier.
 47. The gaming system of claim 46, wherein at leastone of said one or more gaming items comprises a physical game card ortoken depicting or representing a person, character or object relevantto said game, and wherein said RFID tag further comprises non-volatileprogrammable memory configured and adapted to store game-relevantinformation associated with said person, character or object, saidgame-relevant information comprising character attributes,characteristics, appearance or traits selected or developed by said oneor more game participants while playing said game.
 48. The gaming systemof claim 36, wherein said second RF transceiver has a wirelesscommunication range of at least 10 cm.
 49. The gaming system of claim36, further comprising sound or voice recognition circuitry configuredand adapted to enable said gaming system to respond to one or more soundor voice commands.
 50. The gaming system of claim 36, in combinationwith game software adapted to be executed by said gaming platform tocarry out said game, said game software including program instructionsfor causing said gaming platform to: i) conduct said game in which saidvirtual play environment is visually and aurally represented through oneor more computer animations, ii) track a game progress or performance ofsaid one or more game participants playing said game, and iii) adjust aplay experience for said one or more game participants based at least inpart on said tracked game progress or performance.
 51. The gaming systemof claim 36, in combination with one or more gaming items depicting orrepresenting a person, character or object relevant to said game, eachof said one or more gaming items comprising an associated RFID tag ortransponder having a unique identifier stored therein for wirelessly andelectronically identifying said gaming item and/or said person,character or object depicted or represented by said gaming item.
 52. Thecombination of claim 51, wherein said one or more gaming items depictingor representing said person, character or object relevant to said gamecomprises a game card or token depicting or representing said person,character or object relevant to said game, and wherein said RFID tagfurther comprises non-volatile memory configured and adapted to storegame-relevant information associated with said person, character orobject, said game-relevant information comprising character attributes,characteristics, appearance or traits selected or developed by said oneor more game participants while playing said game.
 53. The gaming systemof claim 36, further comprising an image capture system configured tocapture one or more digital images of said game participant playing saidgame.
 54. The gaming system of claim 36, wherein said gaming platformcomprises multiple different gaming platforms provided in said one ormore play environments, and wherein a network connection is providedbetween said multiple gaming platforms for communicating selectedgame-relevant data between said multiple gaming platforms, and whereinsaid game-relevant data comprises at least game progress or performanceinformation for said one or more game participants.
 55. A gaming systemfor amusing or entertaining one or more game participants playing a gamewherein at least a portion of said game is virtually represented in avirtual play environment through one or more computer-animated visual,aural or tactile effects and wherein at least a portion of said game isphysically represented in a physical play environment through one ormore radio frequency identification (RFID)-tagged gaming items, saidgaming system comprising: a wireless gaming platform comprising a videogame console, home game console, handheld game unit, personal computer,or live-action play facility, said gaming platform being configured andadapted to produce a computer-generated virtual play environmentcomprising one or more computer-animated visual, aural or tactileeffects in accordance with a game; a wireless game controller configuredand adapted to be held in a single hand of said game participant andmoved freely through the air and to be single-handedly operated toprovide a wireless control signal to said gaming platform based at leastin part on one or more sensed motions of said game controller, said gamecontroller further comprising: an elongated body having an internalcavity sized and configured to receive one or more batteries andassociated circuitry configured to power and operate said gamecontroller; non-volatile programmable memory storing at least one uniqueidentifier for uniquely identifying said game controller within saidgame; a wireless transmitter configured and adapted to transmit saidwireless control signal to said gaming platform, said transmitter havinga wireless communication range of at least 10 feet; and motion- orposition-sensitive circuitry configured and adapted to enable said gamecontroller to be operated at least in part by moving the entire body ofsaid game controller in said one or more motions to thereby activate orcontrol said one or more computer-animated visual, aural or tactileeffects; an RFID reader device configured and adapted to provide two-waywireless communication with each RFID tag associated with said one ormore RFID-tagged gaming items, said RFID reader device having a wirelesscommunication range of at least 1 cm and wherein said two-waycommunication is facilitated at least in part through inductive couplingbetween said RFID reader and each said associated RFID tag, and whereinsaid RFID reader device is further configured and adapted to generate anelectromagnetic field to wirelessly power each said associated RFID tagby inductive coupling when said one or more RFID-tagged gaming items arewithin said wireless communication range of said RFID reader device;whereby one or more game participants plays said game at least in partby moving said game controller in said one or more motions and at leastin part by selectively placing said one or more RFID-tagged gaming itemswithin said wireless communication range of said RFID reader device towirelessly power said one or more RFID-tagged gaming items and therebycause selected information stored on said associated RFID tag to bewirelessly communicated to said gaming system.
 56. The gaming system ofclaim 55, wherein said one or more RFID-tagged gaming items comprise oneor more physical game cards or tokens depicting or representing persons,characters or objects relevant to said game, and wherein each of saidone or more game cards or tokens has an associated passive RFID taghaving stored therein said selected information for at least wirelesslyand electronically identifying said corresponding person, character orobject.
 57. The gaming system of claim 55, wherein said game controllercomprises a wireless infrared handheld wand controller.
 58. The gamingsystem of claim 55, wherein said motion- or position-sensitive circuitryis configured and adapted to sense and distinguish said one or moremotions of said game controller.
 59. The gaming system of claim 55,wherein each of said one or more RFID-tagged gaming items comprises anassociated passive RFID tag having a unique identifier stored thereinfor electronically identifying said RFID-tagged gaming item and/or aperson, character or object depicted or represented by said RFID-taggedgaming item, and wherein said RFID reader device is further configuredand adapted to automatically exchange one or more wirelesscommunications with said RFID tag when said RFID reader device and saidRFID tag are within said communication range of one another and whereinat least one of said exchanged wireless communications includescommunication of said stored unique identifier.
 60. The gaming system ofclaim 59, wherein at least one of said one or more RFID-tagged gamingitems comprises a physical game card or token depicting or representinga person, character or object relevant to said game, and wherein saidRFID tag further comprises non-volatile programmable memory configuredand adapted to store game-relevant information associated with saidperson, character or object, said game-relevant information includingcharacter attributes, characteristics, appearance or traits selected ordeveloped by said one or more game participants while playing said game.61. The gaming system of claim 55, wherein said RFID reader device has awireless communication range of at least 10 cm.
 62. The gaming system ofclaim 55, in combination with one or more RFID-tagged gaming itemsdepicting or representing said person, character or object relevant tosaid game, each of said one or more gaming items comprising a passiveRFID tag or transponder having a unique identifier stored therein forwirelessly and electronically identifying said RFID-tagged gaming itemand/or said person, character or object depicted or represented by saidRFID-tagged gaming item.
 63. The gaming system of claim 55, wherein saidphysical play environment comprises a play structure, familyentertainment facility, themed play area, multi-purpose area, familyroom, or bedroom.
 64. The gaming system of claim 55, further comprisingan image capture system configured to capture one or more digital imagesof said game participant playing said game.
 65. The gaming system ofclaim 55, wherein said gaming platform comprises multiple differentgaming platforms provided in said one or more physical or virtual playenvironments, and wherein a network connection is provided between saidmultiple gaming platforms for communicating selected game-relevant databetween said multiple gaming platforms, and wherein said game-relevantdata comprises at least game progress or performance information forsaid one or more game participants.